Lattice-cored additive manufactured compressor components with fluid delivery features

ABSTRACT

A light-weight, high-strength compressor component having at least one fluid delivery feature that is formed via additive manufacturing is provided. The component may have at least one interior region comprising a lattice structure that comprises a plurality of repeating cells. A solid surface is disposed over the lattice structure. The interior region comprising the lattice structure has at least one fluid delivery feature for permitting fluid flow through the body portion of the light-weight, high-strength compressor component. The fluid delivery feature may be a flow channel, a fluid delivery port, a porous fluid delivery feature, or the like that serves to transfer fluids through the component, such as refrigerant and/or lubricant oils. Methods of making such compressor components via additive manufacturing processes are also provided.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/366,967 filed on Dec. 1, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Application No. 62/387,117, filed on Dec. 23, 2015. Theentire disclosures of the above applications are incorporated herein byreference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to improved components for compressorshaving integrally formed fluid delivery features created by additivemanufacturing.

BACKGROUND

This section provides background information related to the presentdisclosure which is not necessarily prior art.

Compressors may be used in heating and cooling systems and/or otherworking fluid circulation systems to compress and circulate a workingfluid (e.g., refrigerant) through a circuit having a heat exchanger andan expansion device. Efficient and reliable operations of the compressorare desirable to ensure that the system in which the compressor isinstalled is capable of effectively and efficiently providing a coolingand/or heating effect. In order to increase the operating efficiency andcapacity of these types of machines, capacity modulation (e.g., variablevolume ratio (VVR) systems) or vapor or liquid injection ports may beused. Such system designs often introduce fluid delivery ports andpassages within select compressor components. Typical methods formanufacturing scroll components, such as billet machining, casting andforging, are not always conducive to forming various injection ports andtortuous or complex internal passages. These manufacturing methods mayrequire assembly of separate parts and post-machining of the feature tomaintain the required dimensional tolerances.

Furthermore, compressors often require reliable lubrication duringoperation. Typical compressors employ lubricant oils that circulatewithin the compressor to provide lubrication to moving parts, includingvarious thrust surfaces. A lubricant sump may be disposed within thecompressor shell to store the lubricant oil. The oil is typicallyintermingled with refrigerant and thus creates a working fluid processedwithin the compressor. The lubricant oil can flow with the working fluidthrough the compression mechanism of the compressor and into thedischarge-pressure zone of the compressor. In the discharge-pressurezone, some or all of the lubricant is separated from the working fluidand returned to the lubricant sump. The lubricant is subsequentlyrecycled through the compressor and may interact with the working fluidbeing drawn in the suction-pressure zone of the compressor. Such asystem relies on adequate flow of lubricant oil to various moving partsduring operation of the compressor to provide adequate lubrication.

It would be desirable to ensure adequate lubrication in the regionsbetween moving parts that may not be exposed to high flow rates oflubricant oil, especially during high load conditions. Accordingly, itwould be desirable to develop high-strength, light-weight compressorcomponents that can have integrally formed fluid delivery features, suchas complex passages and ports, to improve fluid delivery (e.g.,refrigerant or working fluid, or lubricant oil) during compressoroperation to improve compressor performance and efficiency and reducemanufacturing process complexity.

SUMMARY

This section provides a general summary of the disclosure and is not acomprehensive disclosure of its full scope or all of its features.

In certain variations, the present disclosure provides light-weight,high-strength compressor component having at least one fluid deliveryfeature. The light-weight, high-strength compressor component has a bodyportion with at least one interior region that comprises a latticestructure. The lattice structure comprises a plurality of cells formedvia additive manufacturing. A surface is disposed over the latticestructure. The body portion also comprises at least one fluid deliveryfeature to facilitate fluid flow through the body portion of thelight-weight, high-strength compressor component.

In other variations, the present disclosure provides a light-weight,high-strength compressor component having at least one fluid deliveryfeature. The compressor component comprises a body portion having atleast one internal region that comprises a lattice structure formedtherein. The lattice structure comprises a plurality of cells formed viaadditive manufacturing. A surface is disposed over the latticestructure. The interior region comprises at least one fluid deliverychannel for permitting a lubricant oil to flow through the body portionof the light-weight, high-strength compressor component.

In yet other variations, the present disclosure provides a method ofmaking a light-weight, high-strength compressor component having atleast one fluid delivery feature. The method comprises applying energyin a predetermined pattern to a powder precursor to create a fused solidstructure via an additive manufacturing process. The fused solidstructure defines a compressor component having a lattice structureformed in an interior region. The interior region comprises at least onefluid delivery feature for permitting fluid flow through the interiorregion of the light-weight, high-strength compressor component.

In another variation, the present disclosure provides a light-weight,high-strength compressor component having at least one fluid deliveryfeature. The compressor component has a body portion comprising at leastone fluid delivery feature formed via additive manufacturing thatfacilitates fluid flow through the body portion via the fluid deliveryfeature.

The description and specific examples in this summary are intended forpurposes of illustration only and are not intended to limit the scope ofthe present disclosure.

DRAWINGS

The drawings described herein are for illustrative purposes only ofselected embodiments and not all possible implementations, and are notintended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a sectional view of an exemplary lattice structure formedvia additive manufacturing in accordance with certain principles of thepresent disclosure.

FIGS. 2A-2K show a perspective view of representative distinct nodes forincorporation into lattice structures formed via additive manufacturingin accordance with certain principles of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 3A-3H show side views of exemplary distinct lattice structures forincorporation into high-strength, light-weight compressor components inaccordance with certain variations of the present disclosure.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate varying density within unit cells of a latticestructure for incorporation into high-strength, light-weight compressorcomponents to form regions with greater levels of reinforcement andstrength. FIG. 4A is a side view of the lattice structure, while FIGS.4B-4D are sectional top and side views.

FIG. 5 shows a sectional view of another exemplary lattice structureformed via additive manufacturing in accordance with certain principlesof the present disclosure, where the size of unit cells and thus celldensity is varied within the lattice structure.

FIG. 6 is a sectional view through a center of a scroll compressorhaving a conventional design, show an exemplary conventional refrigerantscroll compressor 500

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a lower bearing housing assembly formed ofa solid structure made via conventional manufacturing techniques.

FIG. 8 is a high-strength, light-weight lower bearing housing assemblyformed in accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure thatincorporates one or more internal lattice structures and a fluiddelivery feature.

FIGS. 9A-9C show side views of a high-strength, light-weight mainbearing housing having different exemplary lattice structures and fluiddelivery features in accordance with certain aspects of the presentdisclosure. FIG. 9A shows a side sectional view of the main bearinghousing having oil delivery passages to thrust surfaces. FIG. 9B shows aside sectional view of the main bearing housing having oil deliverypassages that open to porous fluid delivery regions corresponding tothrust surfaces. FIG. 9C shows a side sectional view of the main bearinghousing having porous oil delivery passages through the body of the mainbearing housing.

FIGS. 10A-10D show alternate variations of high-strength, light-weightscroll compressor components made in accordance with the presentdisclosure. FIG. 10A is a plan view of a high-strength, light-weightorbiting scroll compressor component, while FIG. 10B is a side view ofthe same compressor component having a lattice structure and a pluralityof fluid delivery features, including a suction port and a dischargeport, formed therein via additive manufacturing. FIG. 10C is a plan viewof a high-strength, light-weight non-orbiting scroll compressorcomponent, while FIG. 10D is a side view of the same compressorcomponent having a lattice structure and a plurality of fluid deliveryfeatures, including a suction port and a discharge port, formed thereinvia additive manufacturing.

FIGS. 11A-11G show side views of alternate variations of high-strength,light-weight orbiting scroll compressor components made in accordancewith the present disclosure formed via additive manufacturing and havingat least one fluid delivery feature. In FIG. 11A, the high-strength,light-weight orbiting scroll compressor component has a latticestructure and an oil delivery feature for lubrication injection into thecompression mechanism formed therein via additive manufacturing. Aplurality of loose residual particles remains in the void regions of thelattice structure after additive manufacturing. In FIG. 11B, ahigh-strength, light-weight orbiting scroll compressor component alsohas a lattice structure and an oil delivery feature for lubricationinjection into the compression mechanism formed therein via additivemanufacturing, but further has removal holes disposed in a surface ofthe orbiting scroll component, so that after additive manufacturing, thevoid regions in the lattice structure may be emptied by removing looseresidual particles through the removal holes. FIGS. 11C and 11D are planand side views of an alternative variation of a high-strength,light-weight orbiting scroll compressor component that has latticestructure and at least two oil delivery passages for lubricating theinterface of the Oldham coupling keys, but further has removal holesdisposed in a surface of the orbiting scroll component. The void regionsin the lattice are empty after removal of loose residual particlesthrough the removal holes. FIG. 11E is a side view of yet anotherhigh-strength, light-weight orbiting scroll compressor component havinga lattice structure and at least two oil delivery features forlubricating a lower thrust surface. The orbiting compressor componenthas a surface with removal holes, so that after additive manufacturing,void regions in the lattice are empty after removal of loose residualparticles through the removal holes. FIG. 11F is a side view of analternative high-strength, light-weight orbiting scroll compressorcomponent having a lattice structure and multiple oil delivery featuresfor lubricating a lower thrust surface. The oil delivery featuresinclude oil channels or passages and a porous region to facilitate evendistribution of lubricant oil over the lower thrust surface. Thehigh-strength, light-weight orbiting scroll compressor component in FIG.11F also has removal holes disposed in a surface for removal of looseresidual materials from the lattice after additive manufacturing. FIG.11G is a side view of yet another high-strength, light-weight orbitingscroll compressor component having a fluid delivery feature in the formof porous internal passages for lubricating a lower thrust surface anupper thrust surface and the tips of the scroll member.

FIGS. 12A-12E show side views of alternate variations of high-strength,light-weight non-orbiting scroll compressor components made inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure. In FIG. 12A,the high-strength, light-weight non-orbiting scroll compressor componenthas a lattice structure and a porous oil delivery feature forlubrication of the compression mechanism thrust surface and tips of thescroll formed therein via additive manufacturing, where after additivemanufacturing, a plurality of loose residual particles remains in thevoid regions of a lattice structure. In FIG. 12B, a high-strength,light-weight non-orbiting scroll compressor component also has a latticestructure and an oil delivery feature for lubrication of the compressionmechanism thrust surface and tips of the scroll, but further has removalholes disposed in a surface of the orbiting scroll component. The voidregions in the lattice are empty after removal of loose residualparticles through the removal holes after the additive manufacturingprocess. In FIG. 12C, another high-strength, light-weight non-orbitingscroll compressor component has a lattice structure and a fluid deliveryfeature in the form of an injection port and horizontal and verticalpassages for capacity modulation. The fluid delivery features andlattice structures are formed via additive manufacturing, where aplurality of loose residual particles is removed via removal holes fromthe void regions of a lattice structure after additive manufacturing.Yet another variation is a high-strength, light-weight non-orbitingscroll compressor component is shown in FIG. 12D, having a latticestructure and a fluid delivery feature in the form of bleed holes forcapacity modulation and a discharge port. The fluid delivery featuresand lattice structures are formed via additive manufacturing, where aplurality of loose residual particles is removed via removal holes fromthe void regions of a lattice structure after additive manufacturing.FIG. 12E shows another variation of a high-strength, light-weightnon-orbiting scroll compressor component having a lattice structure anda fluid delivery feature in the form of vertical fluid passages or portsinto a secondary chamber for a variable volume ratio compressor design.The fluid delivery features and lattice structures are formed viaadditive manufacturing, where a plurality of loose residual particles isremoved via removal holes from the void regions of a lattice structureafter additive manufacturing.

FIGS. 13A-13B show side views of alternate variations of high-strength,light-weight crankshaft compressor components made in accordance withthe present disclosure. In FIG. 13A, the crankshaft has a latticestructure and a plurality of fluid delivery features, including an oildelivery passage and porous oil delivery regions in the wear surfacesthat interface with the lower and main bearings as well as the unloaderbushing drive flat. The lattice structure and fluid delivery featuresare formed via additive manufacturing, where a plurality of looseresidual particles remains in the void regions of a lattice structureafter additive manufacturing. In FIG. 13B, the high-strength,light-weight crankshaft compressor component has a lattice structure anda plurality of fluid delivery features formed therein via additivemanufacturing similar to those in FIG. 13A, however the body portion ofthe crankshaft surface further has removal holes, so that void regionsin the internal lattice are empty after removal of loose residualparticles through the removal holes after additive manufacturing.

Corresponding reference numerals indicate corresponding parts throughoutthe several views of the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Example embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will bethorough, and will fully convey the scope to those who are skilled inthe art. Numerous specific details are set forth such as examples ofspecific compositions, components, devices, and methods, to provide athorough understanding of embodiments of the present disclosure. It willbe apparent to those skilled in the art that specific details need notbe employed, that example embodiments may be embodied in many differentforms and that neither should be construed to limit the scope of thedisclosure. In some example embodiments, well-known processes,well-known device structures, and well-known technologies are notdescribed in detail.

The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particularexample embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As usedherein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” may be intended toinclude the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. The terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “including,” and“having,” are inclusive and therefore specify the presence of statedfeatures, elements, compositions, steps, integers, operations, and/orcomponents, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or moreother features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components,and/or groups thereof. Although the open-ended term “comprising,” is tobe understood as a non-restrictive term used to describe and claimvarious embodiments set forth herein, in certain aspects, the term mayalternatively be understood to instead be a more limiting andrestrictive term, such as “consisting of” or “consisting essentially of”Thus, for any given embodiment reciting compositions, materials,components, elements, features, integers, operations, and/or processsteps, the present disclosure also specifically includes embodimentsconsisting of, or consisting essentially of, such recited compositions,materials, components, elements, features, integers, operations, and/orprocess steps. In the case of “consisting of” the alternative embodimentexcludes any additional compositions, materials, components, elements,features, integers, operations, and/or process steps, while in the caseof “consisting essentially of” any additional compositions, materials,components, elements, features, integers, operations, and/or processsteps that materially affect the basic and novel characteristics areexcluded from such an embodiment, but any compositions, materials,components, elements, features, integers, operations, and/or processsteps that do not materially affect the basic and novel characteristicscan be included in the embodiment.

Any method steps, processes, and operations described herein are not tobe construed as necessarily requiring their performance in theparticular order discussed or illustrated, unless specificallyidentified as an order of performance. It is also to be understood thatadditional or alternative steps may be employed, unless otherwiseindicated.

When a component, element, or layer is referred to as being “on,”“engaged to,” “connected to,” or “coupled to” another element or layer,it may be directly on, engaged, connected or coupled to the othercomponent, element, or layer, or intervening elements or layers may bepresent. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being “directlyon,” “directly engaged to,” “directly connected to,” or “directlycoupled to” another element or layer, there may be no interveningelements or layers present. Other words used to describe therelationship between elements should be interpreted in a like fashion(e.g., “between” versus “directly between,” “adjacent” versus “directlyadjacent,” etc.). As used herein, the term “and/or” includes any and allcombinations of one or more of the associated listed items.

Although the terms first, second, third, etc. may be used herein todescribe various steps, elements, components, regions, layers and/orsections, these steps, elements, components, regions, layers and/orsections should not be limited by these terms, unless otherwiseindicated. These terms may be only used to distinguish one step,element, component, region, layer or section from another step, element,component, region, layer or section. Terms such as “first,” “second,”and other numerical terms when used herein do not imply a sequence ororder unless clearly indicated by the context. Thus, a first step,element, component, region, layer or section discussed below could betermed a second step, element, component, region, layer or sectionwithout departing from the teachings of the example embodiments.

Spatially or temporally relative terms, such as “before,” “after,”“inner,” “outer,” “beneath,” “below,” “lower,” “above,” “upper,” and thelike, may be used herein for ease of description to describe one elementor feature's relationship to another element(s) or feature(s) asillustrated in the figures. Spatially or temporally relative terms maybe intended to encompass different orientations of the device or systemin use or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in thefigures.

Throughout this disclosure, the numerical values represent approximatemeasures or limits to ranges to encompass minor deviations from thegiven values and embodiments having about the value mentioned as well asthose having exactly the value mentioned. Other than in the workingexamples provided at the end of the detailed description, all numericalvalues of parameters (e.g., of quantities or conditions) in thisspecification, including the appended claims, are to be understood asbeing modified in all instances by the term “about” whether or not“about” actually appears before the numerical value. “About” indicatesthat the stated numerical value allows some slight imprecision (withsome approach to exactness in the value; approximately or reasonablyclose to the value; nearly). If the imprecision provided by “about” isnot otherwise understood in the art with this ordinary meaning, then“about” as used herein indicates at least variations that may arise fromordinary methods of measuring and using such parameters.

In addition, disclosure of ranges includes disclosure of all values andfurther divided ranges within the entire range, including endpoints andsub-ranges given for the ranges.

In various aspects, the present disclosure pertains to compressors thatincorporate relatively high-strength, light-weight components that haveone or more integrally formed fluid delivery features. Such fluiddelivery features may be one or more ports, one or more passages orfluid flow channels, or other design features that serve to providefluid communication through portions of a body or interior region of thecompressor component. A “fluid,” as used herein, includes liquids,vapors, and gases, and may include refrigerant, lubricant oil, and/orworking fluid (a combination of refrigerant and lubricant oil). Thefluid delivery features may be hollow or open void structures. Incertain variations, the fluid delivery feature(s) may have selectregions or may be entirely filled with a porous material. The at leastone fluid delivery feature permits fluid flow through a body portion orinternal region of a light-weight, high-strength compressor component.In this manner, the high-strength, light-weight compressor components ofthe present disclosure improve compressor efficiency by enablingenhanced lubrication or by forming features for efficiency promotingdesigns, including capacity modulation or variable volume designs orvapor or liquid injection. The compressor components have the ability toprovide high-strength, light-weight parts having complex fluid deliveryfeatures to enhance compressor operation.

In various aspects, the present disclosure provides a component for acompressor comprising at least one region defining a lattice structureor cellular material. In certain aspects, the region may be an internalor core region of a structural body portion of the component. Aninternal or core region is one that has a continuous surface formed overthe lattice structure where the lattice structure would be exposed to anexternal environment. The component for the compressor may be anintegrally formed, single piece or unitary structure, for example, amonolithic structure. Generally, a lattice structure includes aplurality of cell units that form a repeating structure. By way ofnon-limiting example, a two-dimensional lattice representative latticestructure 100 is shown in FIG. 1 that includes solid structures thatdefine the lattice. The solid structures in the lattice structure 100may include at least one node 110 and at least two connecting branchesor bridge structures 120 attached to the node 110. Generally, aconnecting bridge structure 120 extends between two nodes. Thus, a cellunit (marked by the outline “A”) is formed that has the node 110 and thebridge structures 120. While not shown in the exemplary latticestructure 100 in FIG. 1, a unit cell may have a plurality of nodes, aswell as a plurality of connecting branches or bridge structures. Thecell units are regularly repeated within the lattice structure.

The lattice structure 100 may include a plurality of nodes 130 that maybe interconnected with one another within a unit cell by one or moreconnecting branches/bridge structures 132. Such nodes 130 and connectingstructures 132 are preferably formed of a solid material, such as ametal. The nodes 130 may be solid structures or may have hollow cores orinteriors. In certain other variations, where the nodes or otherstructures within the lattice are hollow, they may be filled with amaterial, such as a powder. The material may also include engineeredpolymers, polymers including elastomers, polymeric composites havingreinforcing materials and a matrix, and/or ceramics. In othervariations, the hollow nodes or other structures may be filled yet othermaterials, such as gases or liquids, including refrigerants, oils, air,and the like, or there may be negative pressure or vacuum conditions inthe hollow void regions.

The open lattice design of the lattice structure 100 is defined by thenodes 130 and connecting structures 132 and creates one or more open orvoid regions 128, where the solid structures are absent. Notably, theone or more void regions 128 may occupy a contiguous substantial volumeof the unit cell and thus are distinguishable from a porous materialhaving micropores or nanopores, but generally forming a solid porousstructure. Notably, the solid structures in the lattice may be porousmaterials, but porous regions are distinguishable from the largermacroscale void regions. In certain aspects, the connecting structuresmay be relatively small or omitted altogether (e.g., where a pluralityof nodes are in direct contact with one another, but still defineregular repeating unit cells).

In certain aspects, respective cell units may be connected to one ormore adjacent cell units to define an interconnected lattice structure.Thus, the connecting structures may extend from a first node within theunit cell to a second node in an adjacent unit cell. For example, inlattice structure 100 the node 110 in cell unit A may be connected tofour distinct nodes 130 in adjacent unit cells. Thus, node 110 in cellunit A is connected to a first adjacent node 134 in adjacent cell unit Bvia a first bridge 136. Node 110 is connected to a second adjacent node138 in adjacent cell unit C via a second bridge 140. Third adjacent node142 in adjacent cell unit D is connected via a third bridge 144 to node110. Lastly, a fourth adjacent node 146 in adjacent cell unit E isconnected to node 110 by a fourth bridge 148. Notably, the exemplarylattice structure 100 is only shown in two dimensions; however, thenodes and connecting structures may also extend between unit cells andlayers in three dimensions.

By way of non-limiting example, in certain variations, the unit cellsmay have a maximum dimension of greater than or equal to about 0.1 mm toless than or equal to about 10 mm and thus are referred to as“meso-structured” or non-foaming materials, having a scale generallybetween micro and macro scales. The number, position, size, and shape ofthe nodes and connecting structures in each unit cell of the latticestructure may vary, but preferably form a repeating structure thatcreates a cellular material.

FIGS. 2A-2K show a plurality of distinct non-limiting node shapes. InFIG. 2A, a node 200A is a sphere. In FIG. 2B, a node 200B is a hollowsphere having a spherical shell 210 and a hollow interior 212. In FIG.2C, a node 200C is a sphere with flat portions 214 disposed at regularintervals about a spherical surface 216. Notably, the number of flatportions 214 and spacing between them can vary from those shown. Itshould also be noted that this node can be hollow similar to node 200B.In FIG. 2D, a node 200D is a sphere that has a plurality of posts 218disposed at regular intervals about a spherical surface 220. It shouldalso be noted that this node can be hollow similar to node 200B. In FIG.2E, a node 200E is a porous sphere having a plurality of small pores 222(e.g., macropores or micropores) formed within a body 224 of the node220E. In FIG. 2F, a node 200F has a double-cone shape. In FIG. 2G, anode 200G has a star sphere shape that includes a central sphere portion226 with a plurality of radiating arms 228 extending from the centralsphere portion 226. In FIG. 2H, a node 200H is a star having a pluralityof radiating arms 230 connected to one another at a central region 232.In FIG. 2K, a node 200K has a cube shape and is porous having aplurality of small pores 234 (e.g., macropores or micropores) formedwithin a body 236 of the node 200K. In FIG. 2I, a node 200I has a cubeshape shown with beveled edges 238. In FIG. 2J, a node 200J has a doublepyramid or double diamond shape. It should be noted that a variety ofother similar shapes may be used as a node, for example, a sphere ismerely being representative of any round shape, including ovals orellipsoids, and a cube may be any rectangular shape. Three dimensionalpolygonal or polyhedrons (e.g., hexagonal polygonal prism/honeycomb) andother more complex node shapes are likewise contemplated.

In certain variations, the light-weight high-strength compressor has alattice structure with a cell comprising a node having a shape selectedfrom the group consisting of: a sphere (e.g., a hollow sphere or solidsphere), a modified sphere comprising one or more flat surface regions,a sphere comprising posts, a cone, a double-cone, a pyramid, a diamond,a star, a cube, a polyhedron, an irregular asymmetrical globular shape(e.g., an irregular non-linear/globular shape like an amoeba), andcombinations thereof. In other variations, the node is selected from thegroup consisting of: a solid sphere, a porous sphere, a hollow sphere, ahollow sphere comprising a core filled with a plurality of particles,and combinations thereof. In other variations, the node may have anasymmetrical shape and is not required to have straight-lines orsymmetry. For example, an irregular/globular (nonlinear)-shaped nodewith a curved outer perimeter (e.g., an amoeba shape) can be used as arepeating unit throughout the lattice.

As generally understood by those of skill in the art, the design of thelattice core structures (for example, node shape, bridge/arm design,length, and angles between the nodes and bridges) can be varieddepending upon the application. Specifically, the directionality of themechanical stress is an important consideration. For example, onelattice structure optimal for reducing mechanical stress or loadtransfer in the plane of the component may require a different structureif the stress or load was primarily traveling in a direction normal tothe component. The direction, distribution, and amount of mechanicalstress applied will dictate the type of lattice structure that isoptimal. Strength (e.g., resistance to torsion, tension, bending, andthe like) will generally be dependent upon the orientation of thelattice relative to the direction of stress. That is, in some cases itis desirable to orient the latticework so that during deflection, thelattice is stressed in compression, which will tend to maximize thestrength of the component. In other cases the reverse may be the goal,whereby more deflection is desirable (and thus less component strength).

FIGS. 3A-3H show exemplary distinct lattice structures that may beemployed in accordance with certain variations of the presentdisclosure. Notably, the respective lattice structures representdifferent nodes and different connecting structures within eachrespective unit cell that together define the lattice structure. Forexample, FIG. 3A represents a lattice structure that can provide highstiffness in all directions. FIGS. 3B and 3G are sphere-based latticesproviding benefits associated with spherical structures. FIG. 3C is alattice structure that can provide impact absorption, without losinglateral stability. FIGS. 3E and 3F are lattice structures that can beemployed for multi-directional loading. FIGS. 3D and 3H are relativelysimple lattice structures that can provide structural rigidity alongwith certain desired cushioning effects. These lattice structures canalso provide thermal advantages. Further, while not shown, the latticestructure may be encased by a solid surface or continuous outer skin. Itshould be noted that a solid surface or continuous skin can also beformed on internal channels or flow structures formed internally withinthe lattice structure.

FIGS. 4A-4D illustrate that a density of the unit cells may be alteredthrough the lattice structure to create regions with greater levels ofreinforcement corresponding to higher density as compared to regions oflower density with somewhat less strength. In compressor components, theability to control cell density and thus strength in certain regions isparticularly advantageous, as certain select regions of the componentsmay experience high levels of force and stress during operation of thecompressor. Designed cellular materials provide an ability to onlylocate solid material where it is needed mechanically for a specificapplication.

In FIGS. 4A-4D, an exemplary lattice structure 240 is shown that has aplurality of nodes 250 formed of a sphere 252 with posts 254 (similar tothe node shown in FIG. 2G). The lattice structure 240 includes aplurality of connecting bridges 256 extending between nodes 250. FIG. 4Bis a top view of the structure in FIG. 4A in a direction of the arrowlabeled “B,” FIG. 4C is a view from behind the cube facing towards thefront in a direction labeled “C,” while FIG. 4D is a view from the sidein a direction of the arrow labeled “D.” As can be seen in a firstregion 260 of the lattice structure 240 the cells have a first density(having a first ratio of solid structure to void region within each unitcell). A second region 270 of the lattice structure 240 has a seconddensity (having a second ratio of solid structure to void region withineach unit cell). The first ratio is less than the second ratio, meaningthe volume occupied by a solid structure in the second region 270 isgreater than the volume occupied of the solid structure in the firstregion 260. In this manner, the second region 270 can be considered tohave a higher density than the first region 260 within the latticestructure 240.

It should be noted that in other variations, depending upon theapplication, the size of unit cells may be selected to be smaller in afirst region for a predetermined volume of the lattice structure ascompared to a size of unit cells in other regions, so that the firstregion may be considered to have a higher density of cells for thepredetermined volume. Such a concept is shown generally in FIG. 5, wherea lattice structure 300 has a first cell unit A with a first node 302connected to other distinct nodes 304 in other adjacent unit cells viaconnecting structures 306. The first unit cell A has a first dimensionor length “d₁.” A second unit cell B has a second node 308 connected toother distinct nodes 304 in adjacent cells via connecting structure 310.The second unit cell B has a second dimension of length “d₂.” Connectingstructures 306 are generally longer in the first unit cells A than theconnecting structures 310 in the second unit cells B. Notably, theexemplary lattice structure 300 is only shown in two dimensions;however, the nodes and connecting structures may also extend betweenunit cells and layers in three dimensions. Thus, distances “d₁” and “d₂”of each cell can be varied within the lattice structure (in threedimensions) to create cells having different densities in differentregions of the lattice structure. Thus, increasing the solid to voidratio within a cell is one variation of increasing density in thelattice structure, while reducing the size of the cell per unit volumeand thus increasing the ratio of solid to void in a predetermined volumeof the lattice is another variation of increasing cell density.

Certain non-limiting advantages of compressor components incorporatingcellular or lattice regions is that they can be designed to have a highstrength accompanied by a relatively low mass. Therefore, such a latticestructure region is light-weight and provides enhanced structural orcompliance performance as compared to conventional bulk materials.Furthermore, when the compressor component is formed by additivemanufacturing the component may be an integrally formed, single piece,unitary monolithic structure. Additive manufacturing also enablesformation of highly complex near-net shapes. Additive manufacturingprocesses permit not only formation of lattice structures, but alsoformation of hollow channels or flow paths, ports, and other hollowinternal regions, including those having complex and tortuous paths.

Furthermore, additive manufacturing processes enable formation of porousregions of solid material in predetermined areas of a compressorcomponent. Such porous regions may be similar to foam materials and canbe distinguished from lattice structures with repeating lattice unitpatterns (each including node and bridge structures). The pores may thusbe randomly disposed throughout in a porous material. In certainaspects, one or more regions of the fluid delivery features, such asfluid flow paths or channels, may be designed to be porous. The poresize may be selected to control flow rate through the fluid flowstructure and thus through the component. Such a feature can beparticularly desirable to regulate flow of oils to thrust and wearsurfaces to draw adequate lubricant material where needed. One method todraw adequate lubrication is by capillary action. The porous materialused as a fluid delivery feature may have a porosity ranging fromgreater than about 1% to less than or equal to about 99% and optionallyhaving a porosity of greater than about 10% to less than or equal toabout 95%. In certain aspects, the flow channels may be highly porous,for example, having a porosity of greater than about 50% to less than orequal to about 99%, optionally having a porosity of greater than about75% to less than or equal to about 95%.

The plurality of pores within the porous regions preferably include aplurality of internal pores and external pores that are open to oneanother and form continuous flow paths or channels extending from aninlet to an exit. As used herein, the terms “pore” and “pores” refer topores of various sizes, including so-called “macropores” (pores ofgreater than 50 nm diameter), “mesopores” (pores having diameter between2 nm and 50 nm), and “micropores” (pores having diameter of less than 2nm), where the pore size refers to an average or median value, includingboth the internal and external pore diameter sizes. The pores may thusbe randomly disposed throughout while being interconnected andpermitting fluid flow therethrough. Furthermore, different regions ofthe interior region of the compressor may have different pore densitiesor different pore sizes, as appreciated by those of skill in the art.Thus, the porous material may have a first region with a first averagepore size (e.g., pore diameter) and a second region with a secondaverage pore size, wherein the second average pore size is smaller thanthe first average pore size, for example, at least 20% smaller todemonstrate a difference in flow rate.

In fabricating the compressor components via additive manufacturingprocesses, one or more of the following additional advantages may berealized: the component, especially a component that is otherwise anassembly of parts, does not have mechanically fastened (e.g., bolted,screwed) or welded, bonded or otherwise fused at joints and seams; andthe component itself may have a reduced cost of manufacturing, both fromusing potentially less expensive raw materials and also by reducing oreliminating various manufacturing and assembling steps, thus reducingattendant labor costs. This is especially true with forming compressorcomponents having fluid delivery features integrally formed therein byadditive manufacturing, as conventional manufacturing of such complexstructures typically requires more expensive processing techniques thathave many more processing and assembly steps.

By “high-strength,” in certain variations, it is meant that thecomponent exhibits a tensile strength of greater than or equal to about32,000 psi (about 220 MPa), optionally greater than or equal to about65,000 psi (about 448 MPa), in certain aspects, optionally greater thanor equal to about 125,000 psi (about 861 MPa), and in certain otheraspects, optionally greater than or equal to about 250,000 psi (about1,723 MPa).

In certain aspects, the compressor component has a body portion havingat least one interior region comprising a lattice structure formed viaadditive manufacturing. The body portion also comprises at least onefluid delivery feature for permitting fluid flow through the bodyportion of the light-weight, high-strength compressor component alsoformed during the additive manufacturing process. In certain aspects,the fluid delivery feature is an open channel for fluid communicationwithin the compressor component. For example, an open channel may be alubricant oil injection passage or a passage for vapor or liquidinjection (e.g., of a refrigerant or working fluid comprisingrefrigerant and oil). In other aspects, the fluid delivery feature maybe a fluid delivery port. Fluid delivery ports include bleed holes,vapor or liquid injection ports, valve placement ports, modulationports, pressure feed ports, variable volume ratio ports, dischargeports, suction ports, and the like. In certain aspects, the fluiddeliver features may include both a fluid delivery port and at least onechannel. The fluid delivery port may be connected to one or more fluidchannels so as to provide fluid communication within an interior regionof the compressor component. Furthermore, in certain variations, atleast one region of the at least one fluid delivery feature comprises aporous material.

Compressor components having such lattice structures and fluid deliveryfeatures can be formed by additive manufacturing techniques. Indeed,additive manufacturing is particularly suitable for forming compressorcomponents having one or more complex internal fluid delivery featuresas provided by the present disclosure. Compressor components havinglattice structure regions formed by additive manufacturing can havehighly complex and freeform shapes. Certain advantages of additivemanufacturing as compared to traditional formation processes, such asmachining or metal molding, is that the shapes and passages formed canbe conformal and quite complex (e.g., curved, tortuous). Furthermore,ports, channels, and passage features can be incorporated into thecomplex shape formed from additive manufacturing including the latticestructure. The ports, channels, and passages can be defined by a solidinternal surface adjacent to and separated from an internal latticestructure within an interior region of the body portion of thecompressor component. In addition to creating fluid delivery featuresand lattice structures, one or more porous regions can also be createdwithin the interior region of the compressor component, as desired, suchas within a portion of a fluid delivery feature. When present, theporous material may be formed during the additive manufacturing process(e.g., printed), may be formed after additive manufacturing as aseparate foam or porous material formation process, or may be apreformed porous material introduced after the additive manufacturingprocess. The introducing of the preformed porous material may furtherinclude coupling or adhering the porous material to an adjacentstructure.

A digital three-dimensional modeling system can be used to first form adigital model of the compressor component structure, including thedesired lattice design in the one or more preselected regions, the oneor more fluid delivery features, and optionally the desired porousmaterial design in one or more preselected regions. The physicalstructure can then be formed from the digital model by direct oradditive manufacturing. Direct manufacturing generally refers to directformation of a scale model of a part or assembly using three-dimensionalcomputer data.

Thus, direct or additive manufacturing techniques may be used to formcomplex metallic (or polymeric) structures having one or more regionswith a lattice structure. Additive manufacturing techniques includedirect-metal additive manufacturing processes, like powder bed fusionmethods that fabricate complex metallic cellular structures by using alaser or electron beam directed over a bed of metal powder. The laser orelectron beam is guided by information provided by the three-dimensionaldigital model to selectively sinter the metal and create thethree-dimensional solid structures. Powder bed fusion processes includelaser sintering, laser melting, direct metal laser sintering (DMLS),selective laser sintering (SLS), selective laser melting (SLM),selective heat sintering (SHS), electron beam melting (EBM), andLASERCUSING™ laser melting processes. Other direct manufacturingtechniques that may be used for such processes include hybrid directenergy deposition (a combination of milling and laser metal deposition),binder jetting (where a liquid bonding agent is selectively deposited tojoin powder materials in a bed), stereolithography (SLA), laminatedobject manufacturing (LOM) or sheet lamination, directed energydeposition, ultrasonic additive manufacturing (UAM), fused depositionmodeling (FDM), and solid ground curing (SGC), by way of non-limitingexample.

In certain aspects, the present disclosure contemplates methods formaking a light-weight, high-strength compressor component having one ormore fluid delivery features. Such a method may include applying energyin a predetermined pattern to a powder precursor to create a fused solidstructure via an additive manufacturing process. The powder precursormay be a plurality of metal particles in a bed. In certain variations,as discussed further below, the powder precursor comprises iron alloyparticles or aluminum alloy particles. The predetermined pattern ofapplication of energy may be repeated over certain areas and buildsthree-dimensional solid fused structures. The fused solid structure maybe a compressor component having a lattice structure formed in aninterior region. The compressor component also at least one fluiddelivery feature formed in the interior region for permitting fluid flowtherethrough. In certain variations, the fluid deliver feature(s) mayinclude a fluid delivery channel and/or a fluid delivery port. Incertain variations, the applying of energy may also form a porousmaterial capable of permitting fluid flow therethrough. Applying energyto the powder precursor can create a sintered porous material. Incertain aspects, the additive manufacturing process is selected from thegroup consisting of: direct-metal additive manufacturing, direct metallaser sintering (DMLS), selective laser sintering (SLS), selective lasermelting (SLM), electron beam melting (EBM), stereolithography (SLA),laminated object manufacturing (LOM), fused deposition modeling (FDM),solid ground curing (SGC), and combinations thereof.

In various aspects, the one or more components fabricated by additivemanufacturing processes are formed from and comprise a metal material.Suitable materials for additive manufacturing include those available aspowder metals. The powder metal precursor may be pre-alloyed. Suitablemetals comprise iron or aluminum, and may include iron alloys, like greyiron, stainless steel, copper alloys, tool steels, low alloy steels,titanium alloys, metal matrix composites, aluminum, or aluminum alloys,by way of non-limiting example. Such metals form structures havingmechanical properties capable of withstanding stresses, torque, and highpressure conditions for long-term use in a compressor. Some suitableexamples of powder metal materials are 17-4 (GP1), 17-4PH, 316L, 440Cand 15-5 (PHI) stainless steels; M2, M50, H13, D2, PD1 tool steels;4140, 4365, 8620 alloy steels; maraging steels, including MS1 maragingsteel; NANOSTEEL™ composite alloys, nickel alloys, such as INCONEL™ 625and 718 alloys and HX nickel alloy (HASTELLOY™ X); MP1 cobalt chrome,nickel copper alloys, metal matrix composites, titanium alloys, likeTi-6A1-4V, alloy 6 (STELLITE™ 6), C276 (HASTELLOY™ C), ANCORTI™ grade 5and grade 23 as well as aluminum alloys such as AlSi10Mg (casting gradealuminum), some of which are produced by companies such as SandvikMaterials Technology, Hoeganaes Corporation, Kennametal Stellite, andNanoSteel Corporation.

Accordingly, the present disclosure contemplates a compressor componentincluding at least one region defining a lattice structure or cellularmaterial. In certain aspects, such a compressor component may beconsidered to have a lattice core. By using additive manufacturingprocesses, the production of compressor components having an internallattice structure with a solid surface layer is provided. The internallattice structure can be designed and optimized to provide rigidity andstrength. The design of the lattice also allows for weight reduction insuch a component as compared to components formed from conventionalformation techniques, due to the void regions in the lattice. Thiscombination therefore provides a strong and lightweight component. Inaddition to providing high strength and lower weight components, one ormore fluid delivery features are also formed within the compressorcomponent to facilitate fluid flow through the interior region of thecompressor component, also affording improvements in compressoroperation, including better lubrication and higher efficiency. The oneor more fluid delivery features may be defined by an internal solidsurface layer within the compressor component disposed within thelattice structure.

In certain variations, the fluid delivery feature may comprise a porousmaterial. The porous material may be created during the additivemanufacturing process as part of the fluid delivery feature. In certainother variations, the porous material may be created or introduced intothe interior region of the compressor component after the additivemanufacturing process that creates the lattice structure and a solidsurface layer. Some examples of porous materials might include thoseformed from polymer fibers, silicones, ceramics, open cell foammaterials, and the like.

In certain aspects, the present disclosure pertains to compressors thatincorporate relatively high-strength, light-weight components that canhave enclosed lattice structures within one or more regions of a body ofthe part that have a fluid, such as gas or fluids (e.g., air), fillingthe void regions or a reduced pressure or vacuum within the one or morevoid regions. In such variations, it is desired to include a solidsurface layer between the lattice structure and any fluid deliverypassages formed within the compressor component. After powder removalfrom additive manufacturing, a liquid, a gas, a gel, or other substancecan be introduced into the void regions of the lattice structure tofurther modify the final properties of the component. Such a techniquemay be especially useful for modifying and further improving soundreduction or thermal transfer properties by this approach (e.g.,reduction in sound transmission). In certain variations, the liquid be apolymeric precursor that cures after filling the void regions to eitherbecome a hard solid or an elastic solid (rubber) or even a gel. In othervariations, a solid filler material may be disposed in the void regionsto provide sound or vibration dampening. The solid filler material maybe powder metal, for example, the unsintered raw material that remainsintact after the additive manufacturing process.

The latticework in the lattice structure can be designed tointrinsically supply an open and possibly porous structure; however, incertain variations, additional materials that modify the latticestructure can be used to enhance or regulate fluid delivery. Suchmaterials may be added to the lattice structure (e.g., filling voidswithin the lattice structure) or disposed on internal surfaces of thelattice structure. Thus, in certain variations, the present disclosurecontemplates at least one surface region of the fluid delivery featurecomprising a coating. For example, internal surfaces of the latticestructure defining the fluid delivery feature can be treated with suchmaterials after formation via additive manufacturing (e.g., to form acoating or layer on one or more regions of the internal surfaces of thelattice structure). Such treatments generally require access to theinside of the lattice structure to make contact with internal surfacesof the lattice structure. For instance, in one variation, a treatment orcoating may be disposed on the surface of the pores defined within theporous material or along the nodes and connecting structures bridges ofthe lattice structure that creates either increased or decreased“wetting” of the fluids (aqueous or non-aqueous fluids, including oils,refrigerants or any other heat exchanging fluid). The level of wettingcan be preselected or tuned based on the coating composition andphysical nature of the interior pore or lattice cell surfaces.Omniphilic coatings increase wetting of polar and non-polar fluids on asurface, while omniphobic coatings decrease wetting for both polar andnon-polar fluids. Omniphilic coatings are generally considered to have acontact angle for both polar and non-polar fluids of less than or equalto about 90°, while omniphobic are generally considered to have areceding contact angle for both polar and non-polar fluids of greaterthan or equal to about 90°. Thus, at least one surface region of a fluiddelivery feature may comprise a coating that is either an omniphiliccoating or an omniphobic coating. In certain other variations, thecoating may be hydrophobic or superhydrophobic, hydrophilic orsuperhydrophilic, oleophobic or superoleophobic, or oleophilic orsuperoleophilic depending on the properties desired.

One type of suitable coating that can be used to modify wetting cancomprise surfactants. Surfactants or surface active agents can have bothan omniphilic portion of the molecule and an omniphobic portion locatedin another region of the molecule. One end of the surfactant can beattached to the metal surface of the lattice or porous material and theother exposed to permit interacting or reacting with fluid. The coatingmay be applied via contacting a gas or liquid phase chemical with orwithout heat. Specific examples of omniphilic coating materials andsurface treatments include etching the interior surfaces with acids,such as chromic or nitric acid. Etching cleans the internal pores andincreases surface area, thus improving wetting. Acidic treatments canalso produce oxide passivation layers as is done with common stainlesssteel treatments. Other processes such as heat treatment in certainatmospheres can induce oxides, nitrides, and the like to form causingmodified wetting of the surfaces. These processes or coatings lower thesurface tension and create more wetting of a fluid. More wetting allowsfaster capillary action increasing the ease and extent of fluid flow.Conversely certain coatings can create an omniphobic surface. Forexample, silane compounds (with varying degrees of perfluorinatedterminations) can create very low wetting surfaces that can reduce theease and speed of liquid flow through the porous lattice. Polymericcoatings, such as PTFE, polyolefins that include polypropylene andpolyethylene are also generally omniphobic. Many commercially availablecompositions also can create the two extreme wetting conditions (e.g.,omniphilic or omniphobic) described above. These include nano-sizedparticulates incorporated into the coatings that push the boundaries ofwettability.

In other variations, a material may be disposed on a surface of thelattice structure and may be transferred into the passing fluid. Thus, acoating on a surface of a fluid deliver feature may comprise an additiveto be transferred to the fluid as it passes through the at least onefluid delivery feature. In one aspect, the additive may be awear-enhancing additive or a wear-reducing additive. The wear reducingcan be introduced into the lattice structure (e.g., post-printing) thatcan be used to release the wear enhancing additive into the circulatinglubricant oil. This additive may serve to reduce friction, preventscuffing/galling or even increase wear, but may do so on a temporarybasis. Reduction in friction and anti-scuffing properties can beenhanced by: phosphorus based additives, sulfur based additives,additives containing PTFE, molybdenum disulfide or graphite or anycombination of the above. These particles may be traditional macroscaleparticles or nanoscale particles. These wear reducing additives can alsobe “time-released” from the lattice structure. Here, the latticestructure would contain solid masses of the additives that slowlydissolve in the oil or refrigerant over time and slowly diffuse out ofthe lattice to reduce friction.

Also, to enhance break-in during initial compressor operations, a smallamount of nano-abrasive may be added into the lattice structure toincrease wear or to be a wear-enhancing additive, but only on atemporary or short-term basis and with only a finite minor amount ofadditive. During initial operation of the compressor, these particleswould exit the lattice and enter the passing fluid, which would becarried to other regions within the compressor to produce quickerbreak-in wear. Such accelerated break-in improves refrigerant gassealing and the compressor achieves faster compressor performance. Thefinite amount of abrasive particles should theoretically become depletedat nearly the same time as acceptable compressor performance/break-inoccurs.

For example, a solid material that serves as a desiccant and/or acidcatcher can be incorporated into the lattice, for example, as a coatingon one or more internal surfaces of the lattice structure. As the oil orrefrigerant passes through the high surface area of the latticework, thefluid can be dried (water removed) and/or reduced in acidity. Acids andmoisture in HVAC systems can be deleterious. Some oils and refrigerantscan produce acids as they age and degrade, so traditionally,filter/driers are used. By incorporating a solid material into thelattice structure through which fluids will pass, discrete filter driersand/or acid catchers can be supplemented or replaced altogether in thecompressor.

In certain other variations, the present disclosure contemplatesheat-activated or on demand oil delivery. For example, a lubricant oilmay be disposed within the pores or internal voids of latticework. Thelubricant oil may have a viscosity or volume such that at certaintemperature ranges, it resides within the pores or internal voids.However, as frictional heat develops, the oil expands and/or lowers itsviscosity because of the heat and spontaneously weeps out onto the metalsurfaces to help lubricate friction areas. Thus, in certain aspects, afluid delivery feature is configured to retain a lubricant oil untilfrictional heat generated during operation of the compressor facilitatesflow and release of the retained lubricant oil from the at least onefluid delivery feature to a friction surface.

The light-weight high-strength compressor components having one or morefluid delivery features according to certain aspects of the presentdisclosure can be incorporated into a compressor having a variablevolume ratio design, a capacity modulation design, a vapor injectiondesign, or a liquid injection design, by way of non-limiting example.The compressor part having the lattice structure and fluid deliveryfeature according to the present teachings may be any of a variety ofparts in the compressor. By way of non-limiting example, the compressormay be multiple different kinds of compressors, including scroll, rotaryvane element, centrifugal, single screw, twin screw, reciprocating,linear, and the like. In certain preferred aspects, the compressorcomponents having lattice structures in accordance with the presentdisclosure are particularly suitable for use in conjunction with ascroll compressor.

As further reference, the drawings and in particular FIG. 6, show anexemplary conventional refrigerant scroll compressor 500 that includes agenerally cylindrical hermetic shell 512 having a cap 514 welded at theupper end thereof and a lower cover 516 welded to a lower end thereof.Cap 514 is provided with a refrigerant discharge 518, which may have theusual discharge valve therein. Other major elements affixed to the shell512 include a compressor inlet 520; a transversely extending partition522 which is welded about its periphery at the same point that cap 514is welded to shell 512. A discharge chamber 524 is defined by cap 514and partition 522.

A motor 528 including a motor stator 530 is disposed between the mainbearing housing 534 and lower bearing support 536. A drive or crankshaft540 has an eccentric crank pin 542 at the upper end thereof and isrotatably journaled in an upper bearing 544. The upper bearing 544 caninclude a conventional drive bushing 546 adjacent to (e.g., press-fittedtherein). Thus, a cylindrical hub 548 of an orbiting scroll 560 receivesthe eccentric crank pin 542 and the upper bearing 544. The crankshaft540 is also supported by and rotatably journaled in a lower bearingassembly 538 attached to the lower bearing support 536. In a centralregion of the scroll compressor 500, the crankshaft 540 passes throughand rotates within an aperture 570 of main bearing housing 534, whichmay include a cylindrical main bearing member 572 disposed withinaperture 570.

A main bearing housing 534 and lower bearing support 536 each defineradially outwardly extending legs, which are each secured to the shell512. The upper surface of the main bearing housing 534 is provided witha flat thrust bearing surface 574 on which is disposed the orbitingscroll 560 having a spiral wrap or vane 562 extending therefrom.Projecting downwardly from the lower surface of orbiting scroll 560 isthe cylindrical hub 548. The upper bearing 544 is a self-lubricatingsleeve type bearing that receives the drive bushing 546 therein. Thecylindrical hub 548, upper bearing 544 and drive bushing 546 each defineand create a concentric inner bore 576, in which crank pin 542 ofcrankshaft 540 is drivingly disposed. Notably, a portion of the bore 576defines a drive flat surface (not shown) that can receive the crank pin542, which itself has a flat surface that drivingly engages the driveflat surface formed in a portion of bore 576 to provide a radiallycompliant driving arrangement, such as shown in assignee's U.S. Pat. No.4,877,382, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated herein byreference.

Non-orbiting scroll 580 is provided having a spiral wrap or vane 582positioned in meshing engagement with the orbiting spiral vane 562 oforbiting scroll 560. Non-orbiting scroll 580 has a centrally disposeddischarge passage 584 defined by a base plate portion 586 communicatingwith an upward opening 588 which is in fluid communication with themuffler discharge chamber 524 defined by cap 514 and partition 522.Non-orbiting scroll 580 also includes an annular hub or raised shoulderportion 590 which surrounds the discharge passage 584. An annular recess592 is also formed in non-orbiting scroll 580 within which is disposed afloating seal assembly 594.

An intake compartment 596 is in fluid communication with compressorinlet 520 through which the fluids (e.g., refrigerant) to be compressedwithin the intermeshed spiral vanes 562, 582 (for compression) areintroduced. After the fluid passes through intake compartment 596, it iscompressed in the spiral vanes 562, 582 so that the pressurized fluid isthen released through the discharge passage 584. A reed valve assemblyor other known valve assembly (not shown) may be provided in thedischarge passage 584 to regulate flow from the discharge passage 584through an opening 598 in muffler partition 522 and into dischargechamber 524.

The floating seal assembly 594 is supported by the annular recess 592 ofnon-orbiting scroll 580 and engages a seat of the partition 522 forsealingly dividing intake compartment 596 from discharge chamber 524.Recess 592 and floating seal assembly 594 cooperate to define an axialpressure biasing chamber which receives pressurized fluid beingcompressed by spiral vanes 562, 582 so as to exert an axial biasingforce on non-orbiting scroll 580 to thereby urge the tips of respectivespiral vanes 562, 582 into sealing engagement with the opposed baseplatesurfaces.

The lower portion of the interior of shell 512 defines an oil sump 600which is filled with lubricating oil. First bore 602 acts as a pump toforce lubricating fluid up the crankshaft 540 and into second bore 604and ultimately to all of the various portions of the compressor whichrequire lubrication. Crankshaft 540 is rotatably driven by electricmotor 528 including motor stator 530, windings 608 passing therethrough, and a motor rotor 610 press fitted on crankshaft 540 and havingupper and lower counterweights 612 and 614, respectively.

An Oldham coupling 620 is disposed between orbiting scroll 560 and mainbearing housing 534. The Oldham coupling 620 is keyed to orbiting scroll560 and non-orbiting scroll 580 and thus prevents rotational movement oforbiting scroll 560. Oldham coupling 620 can be of the type of designdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,320,506, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein by reference

As illustrated in FIG. 7, a conventional lower bearing housing assembly538 includes a cylindrical opening 630 extending therethrough thatallows crankshaft 540 (FIG. 6) to be seated or mounted within a lowerbearing support 632. A cylindrical lower bearing surface 634 is formedin lower bearing support 632 and is disposed directly against thecrankshaft 540. In certain alternative variations, a separateself-lubricating cylindrical sleeve bearing may be seated or mounted inthe lower bearing support 632. The lower bearing support 536 is attachedto the lower bearing assembly 538 and includes a support arm 640 and aconnecting portion 642 that can be attached to the shell 512 (as shownin FIG. 6). Crankshaft 540 has at the lower end the relatively largediameter concentric bore 602 which communicates with the radiallyoutwardly smaller diameter bore 604 extending upwardly therefrom fromthe top of crankshaft 540.

In accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure, acompressor component having a fluid delivery feature may be a lowerbearing component 650, such as that shown in FIG. 8. The lower bearingcomponent 650 may have a body portion 652 with one or more interiorregions 658 that have an internal lattice structure 660, such as thosedescribed above. The lattice structure 660 is formed internally and thuscovered by a metal surface 662. The interior regions 658 also include aporous material 663. Such a component may be formed by any of theadditive manufacturing techniques described above. As shown, the lowerbearing component 650 includes a cylindrical region 666 that has acylindrical opening 667 extending there through that allows thecrankshaft to be seated or mounted within the cylindrical region 666.The lower bearing support 664 defines a support arm 668 and a connectingportion 669. As shown, the internal lattice structure 660 is formed inthe internal body portion of the cylindrical region 666 and internalregion of the lower bearing support 664. The porous material 663 isdisposed along a portion of the cylindrical region 666 and thus definesa fluid delivery feature that provides fluid communication through theinterior of the lower bearing component 650 along the wear surface ofthe cylindrical opening 668, where the rotating crankshaft is received.Thus, oil may be transferred through the length of the cylindricalregion 666 through the lower bearing component 650 to enhance oil flowand thus lubrication. It should be noted that other areas of theinterior regions of the lower bearing component 650 may also comprise aporous material (for example, surrounding the entire cylindrical openingsurface 668 of cylindrical region 666). Such principles are applicableto any of the compressor components discussed herein.

During the additive manufacturing process, residual powder may remainafter energy is applied (e.g., laser that sinters or fuses the solidparticles) to form the contiguous solid structures that create the part(including the lattice structure(s)). In certain variations, theresidual powders, such as metal powders, may remain inside the latticestructure voids to provide additional insulating properties.Alternatively, the residual powders may be removed via one or moreremoval holes 670. These removal holes 670 can be located anywhere onthe component 650. Notably, in variations where the excess residualpowder is not removed, such removal holes 670 may be omitted. Removal ofany remaining powder in the porous material 663 is preferred; althoughseparate removal holes open to the exterior of the bearing component 650are not necessary.

In certain variations, a further manufacturing step may close theremoval holes, for example, where the voids defined in the latticestructures are to have a negative pressure or vacuum, or the materialsforming the internal core regions are not compatible with materials inthe compressor environment (e.g., not compatible with refrigerants andlubricant oils circulating within the compressor or in the porousmaterial). The hole may or may not need to be sealed in the final part,but if so, methods such as soldering, welding, adhesives, and the likemay be used. In certain aspects, the lower bearing compressor componentmay have one or more void regions of the lattice structure filled withan insulating material (or a negative pressure or vacuum) that mayminimize transmission of at least one of thermal energy, sounds, orvibration. By using a lower bearing housing having such latticestructures and porous regions as described in FIG. 8, in certainaspects, the component is a high-strength, low weight part that servesto increase lubrication and thus efficiency and lifetime of thecompressor in which it is incorporated.

In another variation in accordance with certain aspects of the presentdisclosure, a light-weight high-strength compressor component having oneor more fluid delivery features may be a main bearing housing 700 likethat in FIG. 9A. The main bearing housing component 700 defines a bodyportion 710 of the structure. The body portion 710 may include an uppercylindrical support region 720 and a lower cylindrical support region722 that together define an opening 724. While not shown in FIG. 9A, theopening 724 may receive the cylindrical hub 548 of orbiting scroll 560and the eccentric crank pin 542 of crankshaft 540 journaled in upperbearing 544 as shown in compressor 500 of FIG. 6). The main bearingcomponent 700 also includes an outwardly extending leg 726 that includesa bore 728 that receives a fastener (not shown in FIG. 9A, but 636 inFIG. 6) on a terminal end 730 of the body portion 710. Terminal end 730attaches the main bearing housing component 700 to the shell or housing.The main bearing housing component 700 also defines an upper thrustsurface 732.

The body portion 710 of main bearing housing component 700 has one ormore interior regions 740 that have an internal lattice structure 742,such as those described above. Various non-limiting embodiments of suchlattice structures can include nodes 738 having a spherical or roundshape, including hollow spherical nodes, but any of the previous nodeshapes are also contemplated. Further, the lattice structure 742 mayhave alternating node types (e.g., patterns of distinct nodes, such assolid sphere, hollow sphere, solid sphere in a single row or alternatingrows of hollow and solid spheres). The lattice structure 742 is formedinternally within the body portion 710 and thus covered by a metalsurface 744. The interior regions 740 also include two fluid deliverypassages 746. The fluid delivery passages 746 are formed within thelattice structure 742 delineated therefrom by an internal solid surface748. Openings 754 to the fluid delivery passages 746 correspond to theinner surface of the upper cylindrical support region 720 and at theupper thrust surface 732. Thus, lubricant oil may flow within theinterior regions 740 of the main bearing housing component 700 throughthe fluid delivery passages 746 to upper thrust surfaces 732. Such fluiddelivery passages 746 help to ensure oil flow and lubrication in regionswhere it can otherwise be difficult for lubricant oil to circulate,especially during high load conditions.

Such a component may be formed by any of the additive manufacturingtechniques described above. The fluid delivery passages 746 can becreated (e.g., via printing) to facilitate oil passage to surfaces thatrequire additional lubrication. The lattice structure 742 may havematerials (e.g., loose particles) disposed within void regions orremoved via removal holes 752 in the main bearing housing component 700.The core regions of the body portion 710 having the internal latticestructure 742 formed from an additive manufacturing process may belight-weight and high-strength. In an embodiment like that shown in FIG.9A, the internal lattice structures 742 provide insulatingcharacteristics to the main bearing housing component 700 that may befurther capable of minimizing transmission of sound and vibrationthrough the main bearing housing 700. Further, the main bearing housing700 prepared in accordance with the present disclosure has reduced massas compared to a solid main bearing housing. Local lattice cell densitymodifications can be made in certain embodiments to increase or decreasethe housing stiffness and improve sound and/or vibrationcharacteristics. This allows the main bearing housing to be stiff inareas for staking (e.g., to a housing or other stationary component) andflexible in the bearing areas to improve alignment robustness andbearing performance. Such principles are applicable to any of thecompressor components discussed in the present disclosure. Asappreciated by those of skill in the art, the lattice structure patternsand designs shown in the body portions of various figures can be appliedto any other lattice structure designs described or contemplated by thisapplication and to any compressor components.

FIG. 9B shows another variation of a light-weight high-strength mainbearing housing 700B compressor component having two distinct fluiddelivery features. Unless otherwise discussed herein, the main bearinghousing 700B shares a similar design and components like that shown anddescribed above in FIG. 9A, which will not be independently discussedherein for brevity. The interior regions 740B include two fluid deliverypassages 746B. The fluid delivery passages 746B are formed within thelattice structure 742 delineated therefrom by an internal solid surface748. Such a component may be formed by any of the additive manufacturingtechniques described above.

Openings 754B to the fluid delivery passages 746B correspond to theinner surface of the upper cylindrical support region 720 and at theupper thrust surface 732B. Thus, lubricant oil may flow within theinterior regions 740B of the main bearing housing component 700 throughthe fluid delivery passages 746B to upper thrust surfaces 732B. Thefluid delivery passage 746B terminates near the upper thrust surface732B in porous regions 750. Each fluid delivery passage 746B thus feedsto a more porous area in the porous region 750 allowing oil to penetratethe upper thrust surface 732B during operation. The fluid deliveryfeatures thus also include the porous regions 750. The porous materialforming the porous region 750 may be formed as part of the additivemanufacturing process or introduced or infused into the part after theadditive manufacturing process. Again, such fluid delivery features,such as fluid delivery passages 746B and porous regions 750, help toensure oil flow and lubrication in regions where it can otherwise bedifficult for lubricant oil to circulate, especially during high loadconditions.

In yet another variation, FIG. 9C shows a light-weight high-strengthmain bearing housing component 700C for a compressor having distinctfluid delivery features. Unless otherwise discussed herein, the mainbearing housing 700C shares a similar design and components like thoseshown and described above in FIGS. 9A and 9B, which will not beindependently discussed herein for brevity. The interior regions 740Cinclude two fluid delivery passages 746C. The fluid delivery passages746C are formed within the lattice structure 742 delineated therefrom byan internal solid surface 748C. However, fluid delivery passages 746Chave multiple openings 754C corresponding to the inner surface of boththe upper cylindrical support region 720 and inner surface of the lowercylindrical support region 722, as well as at upper thrust surfaces732C. The fluid delivery passages 746C may be filled with a porousmaterial 756. Such a component may be formed by any of the additivemanufacturing techniques described above.

Thus, lubricant oil may flow within the interior regions 740C of themain bearing housing component 700 through the fluid delivery passages746C to upper thrust surfaces 732C. The fluid delivery passage 746Cterminates near the upper thrust surface 732C in upper porous regions750C. Each fluid delivery passage 746C thus facilitates oil transfer tothe upper porous regions 750C; allowing additional oil to penetrate theupper thrust surface 732C during operation. The fluid delivery featuresinclude the porous upper regions 750C as well as the fluid deliverypassages 746C filled with porous material 756. The porous material 756in the fluid delivery passages 746C helps to regulate the flow rate ofoil as it is drawn into the upper porous regions 750C. The porousmaterial forming the porous region 750C may be formed as part of theadditive manufacturing process or introduced or infused into the partafter the additive manufacturing process. Like in the other embodiments,such fluid delivery passages 746C help to ensure oil flow andlubrication in regions where it can otherwise be difficult for lubricantoil to circulate, especially during high load conditions.

In other embodiments in accordance with certain aspects of the presentdisclosure, a high-strength, light-weight compressor component may be anorbiting scroll component 800, as shown in FIGS. 10A-10B. The orbitingscroll 800 includes a baseplate 802 having a first side 804 and a secondside 806. Vanes 808 define an involute scroll form that extends from thefirst side 804 of baseplate 802. A cylindrical hub 810 extendsdownwardly from the second side 806 of baseplate 802. A pair ofoutwardly projecting flange portions 812 each of which is provided withan outwardly opening slot (not shown, but which receive a pair of Oldhamkeys from the Oldham coupling). A body portion of the orbiting scrollcomponent 800 may have at least one core or interior region 814comprising a lattice structure 816 formed via additive manufacturing. Asolid surface 818 is disposed over the lattice structure 816. Thelattice structure 816 may be disposed in an interior region 814 of oneor more of the baseplate 802, the cylindrical hub 810, and/or the vanes808 of the involute scroll form. Fluid delivery features include asuction port 820A within the baseplate 802 to feed inlet working fluid(refrigerant and oil) into the vanes 808. A discharge port 820B fluiddelivery feature is also shown in the center of the baseplate 802through which compressed working fluid may be discharged. Thus, fluidflow within the orbiting scroll component 800 is provided by theintegrally formed fluid delivery features (suction port 820A anddischarge port 820B) in the form of a port.

As shown in FIG. 10B, the lattice structure 816 is formed as acontinuous region within the baseplate 802. However, as with any of theother components described herein, discrete compartments or internalregions that are sealed or separated from one another may be formed withdifferent lattice structures or different materials, depending uponmechanical properties required. By way of example, only one of thebaseplate 802, cylindrical hub 810, or vanes 808 may include the latticestructure 816 (or some combination thereof), in alternative variations.Notably, there are no removal holes formed in the solid surface 818shown for removal of residual or loose powder from the additivemanufacturing process, although they may be included. Thus, a pluralityof loose particles may be left within the void regions of the latticestructure 818. This may provide thermal, sound or vibration dampeningproperties to the orbiting scroll component 800. In other variations,the void regions of the lattice structure may be empty if the loosepowder metal is removed via removal holes and then may optionally beleft empty or filled with a distinct material. Furthermore, additivemanufacturing permits formation of thicker walls for additionalreinforcement as needed in certain portions of the orbiting scrollcomponent 800, if needed. The thicker and thinner structures can beprinted via the additive manufacturing in the areas where required.

FIGS. 10C-10D show another variation of a compressor component havingfluid delivery features according to the present teachings. Anon-orbiting scroll component 822 is shown. The non-orbiting scroll 822includes a baseplate 824 having a first side 826 and a second side 828.Vanes 830 define an involute scroll form that extends from the firstside 826 of baseplate 824. Non-orbiting scroll 822 may include anannular hub or raised shoulder portion 832 which surrounds the dischargepassage 834. A series of outwardly projecting flange portions 836 mayreceive a pair of Oldham keys from the Oldham coupling (not shown).

A body portion of the orbiting scroll component 822 has at least onecore or interior region 838 comprising a lattice structure 840 formedvia additive manufacturing. A solid surface 842 is disposed over thelattice structure 840. The lattice structure 840 may be disposed withinan interior region 838 of one or more of the baseplate 824, raisedshoulder portion 832, and/or the vanes 830 of the involute scrollcomponent 822. Fluid delivery features include a suction port 844Awithin the baseplate 824 to feed inlet working fluid (refrigerant andoil) into the vanes 830. A discharge port 844B fluid delivery featuredefines the discharge passage 834 and is disposed in the center of thebaseplate 824 through which compressed working fluid may be discharged.Thus, fluid flow within and through the non-orbiting scroll component822 is provided by the integrally formed fluid delivery features(suction port 844A and discharge port 844B) in the form of a port.

As shown in FIG. 10D, the lattice structure 840 is formed as acontinuous region within each of the baseplate 824, annular raisedshoulder portion 832, and/or the vanes 830 of the involute scroll form.However, as with any of the other components described herein, discretecompartments or internal regions that are sealed or separated from oneanother may be formed with different lattice structures or differentmaterials, depending upon mechanical properties required. By way ofexample, only one of the baseplate 824, raised shoulder portion 832,and/or the vanes 830 may include the lattice structure 840 (or somecombination thereof), in alternative variations. Notably, there are noremoval holes formed in the solid surface 842 shown for removal ofresidual or loose powder from the additive manufacturing process,although they may be included. Thus, a plurality of loose particles maybe left within the void regions of the lattice structure 840. This mayprovide thermal, sound or vibration dampening properties to thenon-orbiting scroll component 822. In other variations, the void regionsof the lattice structure may be empty if the loose powder metal isremoved via removal holes and then may optionally be left empty orfilled with a distinct material. Furthermore, additive manufacturingpermits formation of thicker walls for additional reinforcement asneeded in certain portions of the non-orbiting scroll component 822, ifneeded. The thicker and thinner structures can be printed via theadditive manufacturing in the areas where required.

In other embodiments in accordance with certain aspects of the presentdisclosure, a high-strength, light-weight compressor component havingone or more fluid delivery features may be an orbiting scroll component850 as in FIG. 11A. The orbiting scroll 850 includes a baseplate 860having a first side 862 and a second side 864. Vanes 866 define aninvolute scroll form that extends from the first side 862 of baseplate860. A cylindrical hub 868 extends downwardly from the second side 864of baseplate 860. A pair of outwardly projecting flange portions 870each of which is provided with an outwardly opening slot (not shown, butwhich receive a pair of Oldham keys from the Oldham coupling). A bodyportion 872 of the orbiting scroll component 850 has at least one coreor interior region 874 comprising a lattice structure 880 formed viaadditive manufacturing. A solid surface 882 is disposed over the latticestructure 880. The lattice structure 880 may be disposed in an interiorregion 872 of one or more of the baseplate 860, the cylindrical hub 868,and/or the vanes 866 of the involute scroll form.

A fluid delivery passage 886 is formed within the lattice structure 880delineated therefrom by an internal solid surface 887. Openings 888 tothe fluid delivery passage 886 correspond to a thrust surface on thefirst side 862 of baseplate 860 and a surface on the second side 864 ofbaseplate 860 within the cylindrical hub 868. The thrust surface on thefirst side 862 of baseplate 860 corresponds to a region of thecompression mechanism where vanes from the opposing non-orbiting scrollcontact during operation. Thus, lubricant oil may flow within theinterior regions 874 of the orbiting scroll component 850 through thefluid delivery passage 886 between the first side 862 and the secondside 864 of the baseplate 860. While only a single oil delivery passage886 is shown in FIG. 11A, multiple fluid delivery passages are likewiseenvisioned. Such fluid delivery passages 886 help to ensure oil flow andlubrication in regions where it can otherwise be difficult for lubricantoil to circulate, especially during high load conditions. It is alsoenvisioned that the fluid passages can provide an oil supply to thethrust surface on the first side 862 of baseplate 860, where it can beinjected into or picked up by the suction gas entering the compressionpockets generated by the intermeshed spiral vanes 562 and 582 of theorbiting scroll 560 and the non-orbiting scroll 580 as shown in FIG. 6.This mixture of gas and oil can help improve compressor efficiency andor improve compressor reliability.

Such a component may be formed by any of the additive manufacturingtechniques described above. The fluid delivery passages 886 can becreated (e.g., via printing) to facilitate oil passage to surfaces thatrequire additional lubrication. The lattice structure 880 can likewisebe formed via the additive manufacturing process. As shown in FIG. 11A,the lattice structure is formed as a continuous region within each ofthe baseplate 860, the cylindrical hub 868, and/or the vanes 866 of theinvolute scroll form. However, as with any of the other componentsdescribed herein, discrete compartments or internal regions that aresealed or separated from one another may be formed with differentlattice structures or different materials, depending upon mechanicalproperties required. By way of example, only one of the baseplate 860,cylindrical hub 868, or vanes 866 may include the lattice structure 880(or some combination thereof), in alternative variations. Notably, thereare no removal holes formed in the solid surface 882 for removal ofresidual or loose powder from the additive manufacturing process. Thus,a plurality of loose particles 884 may be left within the void regionsof the lattice structure 880. This may provide thermal, sound, orvibration dampening properties to the orbiting scroll component 850.Furthermore, certain areas may require thicker walls (or solid surfaces882), for example, solid surface 882 may be thicker on the second side864 along the cylindrical hub 868 and lower regions of the baseplate860, while solid surface 882 may be thinner along the first side 862,including along the surface regions of vanes 866. The scroll vanes 866are designed for weight reduction with equal or better strength thanconventionally formed vanes. The thicker and thinner structures can beprinted via the additive manufacturing in the areas where required.

Another variation of a high-strength light-weight orbiting scrollcomponent 850B having one or more fluid delivery features is shown inFIG. 11B. The design and components in orbiting scroll component 850Bare the same as those in orbiting scroll component 850 in FIG. 11A,unless otherwise discussed herein. In orbiting scroll component 850B,including baseplate 860B, a solid surface 882B is disposed over alattice structure 880B. However, one or more removal holes 890 areformed in the solid surface 882B for removal of residual or loose powderremaining after the additive manufacturing process. Thus, the latticestructure 880B may have empty void regions. Notably, some looseparticles may remain in the voids after the removal process; however amajority of loose and residual particles are removed. In certainaspects, the lattice structure 880B design may provide adequateinsulation to heat, sound or vibration where desired, so that leavingsuch particles or introducing another material is not necessary. Inother variations, the lattice structure 880B may have empty void regionsthat are subsequently filled with distinct materials (e.g., solids,gels, foams, liquids, or gases) or negative pressure/vacuum. Afterremoval, the removal holes 890 in the solid surface 882B may besubsequently sealed over with a material via a variety of knowntechniques to create such patches. The removal holes 890 may be sealedwhen it is desirable to have a contained or sealed interior volume, forexample, when the interior region 872 is formed of or contains amaterial that is not compatible with refrigerant and oils in thecompressor or a vacuum is present in the voids of the lattice structure880B. The holes 890 may or may not need to be sealed in the final part,but if so, methods such as soldering, welding, adhesives, and the likemay be used.

Another variation of a high-strength light-weight orbiting scrollcomponent 850C having one or more fluid delivery features is shown inFIGS. 11C-11D. The design and components in orbiting scroll component850C are the same as those in orbiting scroll component 850B in FIG.11B, unless otherwise discussed herein. Fluid delivery passages 886C areformed in the baseplate 860C within the lattice structure 880C that hasa solid surface 882C disposed thereon. The fluid delivery passages 886Care delineated from the lattice structure 880C by an internal solidsurface 887C. Openings 888C to the fluid delivery passage 886Ccorrespond to a terminal end 889 of baseplate 860C and a surface on thesecond side 864 of baseplate 860C within the cylindrical hub 868. Theterminal ends 889 of the baseplate 860C have Oldham key slots 892 thatinteract with the Oldham keys of the Oldham ring (not shown in FIGS. 11Cand 11D) during compressor operation. Thus, lubricant oil may flowwithin the interior regions 874C of the orbiting scroll component 850Cthrough the fluid delivery passages 886C between the second side 864 ofthe baseplate 860 to the terminal end 889 and Oldham key slots 892 tofeed lubricant oil to the Oldham keys. Again, such fluid deliverypassages 886C help to ensure oil flow and lubrication in regions whereit can otherwise be difficult for lubricant oil to circulate, especiallyduring high load conditions. It should be noted that such a design maybe implemented with a design similar to that shown in FIG. 11A, wherethe lattice is filled with loose powder materials, as well.

Yet another variation of a high-strength light-weight orbiting scrollcomponent 850E having one or more fluid delivery features is shown inFIG. 11E. The design and components in orbiting scroll component 850Eare the same as those in orbiting scroll component 850B in FIG. 11B,unless otherwise discussed herein. Fluid delivery passages 886E areformed in the baseplate 860E within the lattice structure 880E that hasa solid surface 882E disposed thereon. The fluid delivery passages 886Eare delineated from the lattice structure 880E by an internal solidsurface 887E. Openings 888E to the fluid delivery passage 886Ecorrespond to a surface on the second side 864 of baseplate 860E withinthe cylindrical hub 868 and to a plurality of discrete regions outsidethe cylindrical hub 868 corresponding to lower thrust regions 896 on thesecond side 864 of baseplate 860E. During compressor operation, the flatthrust bearing surface 574 of upper surface of the main bearing housing(shown in FIG. 6 as 534) interacts with the lower thrust regions 896 onthe baseplate 860E. Thus, lubricant oil may flow within the interiorregions 874E of the orbiting scroll component 850E through the fluiddelivery passages 886E between the inner portion of the cylindrical hub868 to the regions on the outside of the cylindrical hub 868corresponding to the lower thrust regions 896. Such fluid deliverypassages 886E help to ensure oil flow and lubrication in regions whereit can otherwise be difficult for lubricant oil to circulate, especiallyduring high load conditions. It should be noted that such a design maybe implemented with a design similar to that shown in FIG. 11A, wherethe lattice is filled with loose powder materials, as well. While only asingle set of oil delivery passage 886E is shown in FIG. 11E, multiplefluid delivery passages can likewise envisioned.

FIG. 11F shows a variation of a high-strength light-weight orbitingscroll component 850F having two distinct fluid delivery featuressimilar to that shown in FIG. 11E. The design and components in orbitingscroll component 850F are the same as those in orbiting scroll component850E in FIG. 11E, unless otherwise discussed herein. The interiorregions 874F include two distinct fluid delivery passages 886F. Thefluid delivery passages 886F are formed within the lattice structure880F delineated therefrom by an internal solid surface 887F. Such acomponent may be formed by any of the additive manufacturing techniquesdescribed above.

Openings 888F to the fluid delivery passage 886F correspond to a surfaceon the second side 864 of baseplate 860F within the cylindrical hub 868and to a plurality of discrete regions outside the cylindrical hub 868corresponding to lower thrust regions 896 on the second side 864 ofbaseplate 860F (that interact with thrust surfaces on the main bearinghousing). The fluid delivery passage 886F terminates near the lowerthrust regions 896 in porous regions 898. Each fluid delivery passage886F thus feeds to a more porous area in the porous region 898 allowingoil to penetrate the lower thrust surface 896 during operation. Thefluid delivery features thus also include the porous regions 898. Theporous material forming the porous region 898 may be formed as part ofthe additive manufacturing process or introduced or infused into thepart after the additive manufacturing process. Again, such fluiddelivery features, such as fluid delivery passages 886F and porousregions 898, help to ensure oil flow and lubrication in regions where itcan otherwise be difficult for lubricant oil to circulate, especiallyduring high load conditions. Again while only a single set of oildelivery passage 886F are shown in FIG. 11F, multiple fluid deliverypassages can likewise envisioned. Notably, such porous fluid deliveryfeatures may be used at openings with any of the embodiments previouslyshown having fluid passages or the porous material may fill the entirefluid passage, and can serve to regulate flow of lubricant oils or otherfluids. By way of non-limiting example, while not shown in theembodiment FIGS. 11C and 11D, the openings 888C at the terminal ends 889of fluid passages 886C located at the Oldham key slots 892 can have aporous material introduced in a similar manner.

Fluid delivery passages 886F are formed in the baseplate 860F within thelattice structure 880F that has a solid surface 882F disposed thereon.The fluid delivery passages 886F are delineated from the latticestructure 880F by an internal solid surface 887F. Openings 888F to thefluid delivery passage 886F correspond to a surface on the second side864 of baseplate 860F within the cylindrical hub 868 and to a pluralityof discrete regions outside the cylindrical hub 868 corresponding tolower thrust regions 896 on the second side 864 of baseplate 860F.During compressor operation, the flat thrust bearing surface 574 ofupper surface of the main bearing housing (shown in FIG. 6 as 534)interacts with the lower thrust regions 896 on the baseplate 860F. Thus,lubricant oil may flow within the interior regions 874F of the orbitingscroll component 850F through the fluid delivery passages 886F betweenthe inner portion of the cylindrical hub 868 to the regions on theoutside of the cylindrical hub 868 corresponding to the lower thrustregions 896. Such fluid delivery passages 886F help to ensure oil flowand lubrication in regions where it can otherwise be difficult forlubricant oil to circulate, especially during high load conditions. Itshould be noted that such a design may be implemented with a designsimilar to that shown in FIG. 11A, where the lattice is filled withloose powder materials, as well.

In accordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure, ahigh-strength light-weight orbiting scroll component 850G having aporous fluid delivery feature is shown in FIG. 11G. The design andcomponents in orbiting scroll component 850G are the same as those inorbiting scroll component 850 in FIG. 11A or 850F shown in FIG. 11F,unless otherwise discussed herein. Notably, orbiting scroll component850G is shown without an internal lattice structure 880 like in FIG. 11Aor internal lattice 880F in FIG. 11F, although one or more internallattice structures may be formed in certain regions. In the interiorregions 874G of orbiting scroll component 850G, fluid delivery passages886G are created by porous regions 898G comprising a porous material. Asolid surface 882G forms the remainder of the orbiting scroll component850G and is disposed over and around the porous regions. Porous regions898G are disposed in vanes 899, cylindrical hub 868G, and baseplate860G. The porous regions 898G may include porous material havingdifferent pore sizes in different regions. Thus, the passages 886G canfeed a more porous area allowing the oil to penetrate various surfacesduring operation.

The vanes 899 include openings 888G at the tips. Similarly, openings888G to the fluid delivery passage 886G correspond to a thrust surfaceon the first side 862G of baseplate 860G and a surface on the secondside 864G of baseplate 860G within the cylindrical hub 868G. Thus,lubricant oil may flow within the interior regions 874G of the orbitingscroll component 850G through the fluid delivery passage 886G betweenthe vanes 899, to the first side 862G, and to the second side 864G ofthe baseplate 860G. As with other embodiments, such fluid deliverypassages 886G help to ensure oil flow and lubrication in regions whereit can otherwise be difficult for lubricant oil to circulate, especiallyduring high load conditions.

The porous material forming the porous region 898G may be formed as partof the additive manufacturing process or introduced or infused into thepart after the additive manufacturing process, as described above.Again, such fluid delivery features, such as porous fluid deliverypassages 886G, help to ensure oil flow to various regions requiringlubrication during compressor operation. It should be noted that thedesign of the porous regions 898G is desirably such that no highpressure side to low pressure side leaks occur. In certain variations,the porous regions 898G may be partially or fully filled or infused withanother material as a sealant to minimize pressure leaks. Thus, vanes899 may have a sealing material infused therein after additivemanufacturing in certain designs to prevent fluid leaks.

Another variation of a high-strength light-weight compressor componenthaving one or more fluid delivery features is non-orbiting scrollcomponent 900 is shown in FIG. 12A. The non-orbiting scroll 900 includesa baseplate 910 having a first side 912 and a second side 914. Vanes 916define an involute scroll form that extends from the first side 912 ofbaseplate 910. Non-orbiting scroll 900 includes an annular hub or raisedshoulder portion 918 which surrounds the discharge passage 920. Anannular recess 922 is also formed in non-orbiting scroll 900 withinwhich a floating seal assembly may be disposed (not shown). A series ofoutwardly projecting flange portions 924 each of which is provided withan outwardly opening slot (not shown, but which receive a pair of Oldhamkeys from the Oldham coupling).

A body portion 930 of the non-orbiting scroll component 900 has at leastone core or interior region 932. In the interior regions 932, fluiddelivery passages 934 are created by porous regions 936 comprising aporous material 938. The interior region 932 also comprises a latticestructure 940 formed via additive manufacturing. A solid surface 942 isdisposed over the lattice structure 940 and around the porous regions936. An internal solid surface 928 divides the porous regions 936defining fluid delivery passages 934 from the lattice structure 940.

Porous regions 936 are disposed in vanes 916 and along the thrustsurface along the first side 912 of baseplate 910. Thus, lubricant oilmay flow within the interior regions 932 of the non-orbiting scrollcomponent 900 through the fluid delivery passage 934 comprising theporous regions 936 between the vanes 916 to the first side 912 of thebaseplate 910. The porous regions 936 may include porous material havingdifferent pore sizes in different regions to facilitate different ratesof oil or fluid flow therein. Thus, the fluid delivery passages 934 canfeed a more porous area, allowing the oil to penetrate various surfacesduring operation, as needed. The vanes 916 include openings 948 at thetips. Similarly, openings 948 to the fluid delivery passage 934correspond to the thrust surface on the first side 912 of baseplate 910.As with other embodiments, such fluid delivery passages 934 help toensure oil flow and lubrication in regions where it can otherwise bedifficult for lubricant oil to circulate, especially during high loadconditions.

The lattice structure 940 may be disposed within an interior region 932of one or more of the baseplate 910, raised shoulder portion 918, and/orthe vanes 916 of the involute scroll form. As shown in FIG. 12A, thelattice structure 940 is formed as a continuous region within portionsof the baseplate 910 and annular raised shoulder portion 918. However,as with any of the other components described herein, discretecompartments or internal regions that are sealed or separated from oneanother may be formed with different lattice structures or differentmaterials, depending upon mechanical properties required. By way ofexample, only one of the baseplate 910 or annular raised shoulderportion 918 may include the lattice structure 940 (or some combinationthereof), in alternative variations. Notably, there are no removal holesformed in the solid surface 942 for removal of residual or loose powderfrom the internal lattice structure 940 formed via additivemanufacturing process. Thus, a plurality of loose particles 944 may beleft within the void regions of the lattice structure 940.

This may provide additional thermal, sound or vibration dampeningproperties to the non-orbiting scroll component 900. Notably, certainareas may require thicker walls (or thicker solid surfaces 942), forexample, solid surface 942 may be thicker on the second side 914 toreinforce the structure, while solid surface 942 may be thinner alongthe first side 912, including along the surface regions of vanes 916.The scroll vanes 916 are designed for weight reduction with equal orbetter strength than conventionally formed vanes. The thicker andthinner structures can be printed via the additive manufacturing in theareas where required.

Another variation of a high-strength light-weight compressor componenthaving fluid delivery features is non-orbiting scroll component 900B isshown in FIG. 12B. The design and components in non-orbiting scrollcomponent 900B are the same as those in non-orbiting scroll component900 in FIG. 12A, unless otherwise discussed herein. In non-orbitingscroll component 900B, a solid surface 942B is disposed over a latticestructure 940B. However, one or more removal holes 946 are formed in thesolid surface 942B for removal of residual or loose powder remainingafter the additive manufacturing process. Thus, the lattice structure940B may have empty void regions. Notably, some loose particles mayremain in the voids after the removal process; however a majority ofloose and residual particles are removed. In certain aspects, thelattice structure 940B design may provide adequate insulation tothermal, sound or vibration so that leaving such particles orintroducing another material is not necessary. In other variations, thelattice structure 940B may have empty void regions that are subsequentlyfilled with distinct materials (e.g., solids, gels, foams, liquids, orgases) or negative pressure/vacuum. After removal, the removal holes 946in the solid surface 942B may be subsequently sealed over with amaterial via a variety of known techniques to create such patches. Theremoval holes 946 may be sealed when it is desirable to have a containedor sealed interior volume, for example, when the interior region 932 isformed of or contains a material that is not compatible with refrigerantand oils in the compressor or a vacuum is present in the voids of thelattice structure 940B. The holes 946 may or may not need to be sealedin the final part, but if so, methods such as soldering, welding,adhesives, and the like may be used.

Another variation of a high-strength light-weight compressor componenthaving fluid delivery features is non-orbiting scroll component 900C isshown in FIG. 12C. The design and components in non-orbiting scrollcomponent 900C are the same as those in non-orbiting scroll component900B in FIG. 12B, unless otherwise discussed herein. Notably, the designof the non-orbiting scroll component 900C does not have any porousregions as fluid delivery features. However, non-orbiting scrollcomponent 900C has a lattice structure 940C disposed within interiorregions 932C. The lattice structure 940C is disposed within the vanes916C and baseplate 910C of the interior region 932C. A solid surface942C is disposed over the lattice structure 940C. In certain variations,loose powder may remain in the lattice structure 940C voids, if desired.

In other variations, one or more removal holes 946C are formed in thesolid surface 942A for removal of residual or loose powder remainingafter the additive manufacturing process. Thus, the lattice structure940C may have empty void regions. Notably, some loose particles mayremain in the voids after the removal process; however a majority ofloose and residual particles are removed. In certain aspects, thelattice structure 940C design may provide adequate insulation tothermal, sound or vibration so that leaving such particles orintroducing another material is not necessary. In other variations, thelattice structure 940C may have empty void regions that are subsequentlyfilled with distinct materials (e.g., solids, gels, foams, liquids, orgases) or negative pressure/vacuum. After removal and possibleintroduction of new materials, the removal holes 946C in the solidsurface 942C may be subsequently sealed over with a material via avariety of known techniques to create such patches. The removal holes946C may be sealed when it is desirable to have a contained or sealedinterior volume, for example, when the interior region 932C is formed ofor contains a material that is not compatible with refrigerant and oilsin the compressor or a vacuum is present in the voids of the latticestructure 940C.

Non-orbiting scroll component 900C also contains at least one fluiddelivery feature 950 in the form of a fluid port 952 connected to atleast one channel or passage 954 that enables fluid communication withinthe non-orbiting scroll component 900C. As shown in FIG. 12C, thechannel or passage 954 includes a horizontal flow passage 956 in fluidcommunication with the fluid port 952 and a vertical flow passage 958.The vertical flow passage 958 is in fluid communication and opens to asurface on the first side 912 of the baseplate 910C between the vanes916C that corresponds to a portion of the compression mechanism. Thus,fluid delivery features, including ports 952 and passages 954 and 958can be formed via additive manufacturing in areas where needed, such asa vapor/liquid injection or a modulation passages. Another fluiddelivery feature 950 is an intermediate chamber bleed hole 952 that canbe similarly formed. Any fluid delivery features, including ports and/orpassages can be formed (e.g., via printing) within the body regions ofthe non-orbiting scroll compressor components in areas where needed forvapor injections or liquid injections or for variable volume ratio (VVR)ports or for ports providing capacity modulation. While only a singlefluid delivery passage is shown, it should be understood that multiplefluid delivery passages are likewise envisioned. While not shown, a setof valves may be incorporated to open and close the ports. This could bedone after printing or during the printing cycle.

In yet other variation, a non-orbiting scroll component 900D having atleast one fluid delivery feature 950D in the form of at least one fluidchannel or passage 954D enables fluid communication within thenon-orbiting scroll component 900D in FIG. 12D. While the non-orbitingscroll component 900D has a slightly different capacity modulationdesign than non-orbiting scroll design in FIG. 12C; however, they sharemany of common features and for brevity, such features can be consideredthe same unless discussed further here. As shown in FIG. 12D, thechannels or passages 954D includes a vertical flow passage 958D. Thevertical flow passage 958D enables fluid communication and opens to asurface on the first side 912 of the baseplate 910D between the vanes916D that corresponds to a portion of the compression mechanism. On theother end, the vertical flow passage 958D opens to a capacity modulationchamber 960. In this manner, the vertical flow passage 958D can serve asa modulation passage.

Non-orbiting scroll component 900D has a lattice structure 940D disposedwithin interior regions 932D. The lattice structure 940D is disposedwithin the vanes 916D and baseplate 910D of the interior region 932D. Asolid surface 942D is disposed over the lattice structure 940D. Incertain variations, residual or loose powder remaining after theadditive manufacturing process may remain in the void regions of thelattice structure 940D. In other variations, one or more removal holes946D are formed in the solid surface 942D for removal of residual orloose powder remaining after the additive manufacturing process orintroduction of new materials, as discussed above. Such removal holes946D may be subsequently sealed or closed.

FIG. 12E shows yet another variations of a non-orbiting scroll component900E having at least one fluid delivery feature 950E enabling fluidcommunication within the non-orbiting scroll component 900E. While thenon-orbiting scroll component 900E has a slightly different variablevolume ratio design than non-orbiting scroll designs in FIGS. 12C-12D,the non-orbiting scroll components share many of common features and forbrevity, such features can be considered the same unless discussedfurther here. As shown in FIG. 12E, a plurality of channels or passages954E defines vertical flow passages. The vertical flow passages 954Eenable fluid communication and open to a surface on the first side 912of the baseplate 910E between the vanes 916E that corresponds to aportion of the compression mechanism. On the other side, the verticalflow passages 954E open to a secondary volume chamber 962. In thismanner, the vertical flow passage 954E can serve as a passage enablingfluid communication when necessary between the primary compressionmechanism volume and the secondary volume chamber 962 to create avariable volume ratio compressor design. While not shown, a set ofvalves may be incorporated to open and close the ports 954E. This couldbe done after printing or during the printing cycle. As with previousdesigns, non-orbiting scroll component 900E has a lattice structure 940Edisposed within interior regions 932E. The lattice structure 940E isdisposed within the vanes 916E and baseplate 910E of the interior region932E. A solid surface 942E is disposed over the lattice structure 940E.In certain variations, residual or loose powder remaining after theadditive manufacturing process may remain in the void regions of thelattice structure 940E. In other variations, while not shown, removalholes may be used to remove residual or loose powder remaining after theadditive manufacturing process and optionally introduce new materialsinto the lattice structure 940E, as discussed above.

Thus, various fluid delivery features, including ports andchannels/passages can be formed via additive manufacturing in areaswhere needed, such as a vapor/liquid injection passage, fluid injectionports, or capacity modulation features, by way of non-limiting example.The compressor component may be incorporated into a compressor having avariable volume ratio design, a capacity modulation design, a vaporinjection design, or a liquid injection design, by way of non-limitingexample. Again while not shown, a set of valves may be incorporated toopen and close the ports. This could be done after printing or duringthe printing cycle.

In another variation in accordance with certain aspects of the presentdisclosure, a light-weight high-strength scroll compressor componenthaving a fluid delivery feature may be a crankshaft 1000 shown in FIG.13A. The crankshaft 1000 has a crankpin 1002 on one end and a terminalend 1004 at an opposite end. The crankshaft 1000 is rotatably driven bya motor (not shown in FIG. 13A). The crankpin 1002 has a flat surface1006 that drivingly engages with an opposing drive flat surface in abore within a cylindrical hub of an orbiting scroll member (not shown).The terminal end 1004 can seat within a lower bearing assembly (notshown). A first open channel or bore 1010 is formed within thecrankshaft 1000 at the terminal end 1004 and permits lubricating oil tobe pumped up the crankshaft 1000 into second bore 1012. Second bore 1012has two terminal openings 1036, thus ultimately lubricating oil ispumped through crankshaft 1000 to all of the various portions of thecompressor which require lubrication. Thus, the first open bore 1010 andsecond bore 1012 serve as fluid delivery passages through a length ofthe crankshaft 1000.

A body portion 1020 of the crankshaft 1000 is disposed between thecrankpin 1002 and the terminal end 1004. The body portion 1020 has atleast one core or interior region 1022 comprising a lattice structure1030 formed via additive manufacturing, as previously described above. Asolid surface 1032 is disposed over the lattice structure 1030. Thelattice structure 1030 may be disposed in an interior region 1022 ofbody portion 1020. The internal second bore 1012 is separated from thelattice 1030 by an internal solid surface 1034. As discussed above, incertain variations, the residual powders, such as metal powders, mayremain inside the lattice structure voids to provide additionalproperties. The excess unsintered powder may be removed or inalternative variations, may remain in the voids of the latticestructure. As shown in FIG. 13A, there are no removal holes in the solidsurface 1032 for removing residual or loose powder from the additivemanufacturing process. Thus, a plurality of loose particles may be leftwithin the void regions of the lattice structure 1030. This may providethermal, sound or vibration dampening properties to the crankshaft 1000.Furthermore, additive manufacturing permits formation of thicker wallsfor additional reinforcement as needed in certain portions of thecrankshaft 1000, if needed. The thicker and thinner structures can beprinted via the additive manufacturing in the areas where required.

The crankshaft 1000 also includes two distinct porous fluid deliveryfeatures. A first porous region 1040 comprising a porous material isdisposed on the wear surfaces at the terminal end 1004. A second porousregion 1044 also comprising a porous material is disposed on the wearsurfaces at a proximal end 1046 of the crankshaft 1000 adjacent to thecrankpin 1002. Such porous components may be formed by any of theadditive manufacturing techniques described above.

As shown, the internal lattice structure 1030 is formed in the internalbody portion 1020 of the crankshaft 1000. The first porous region 1040is disposed along a portion of the crankshaft 1000 that interfaces withthe lower bearing, while the second porous region 1044 is disposed alonga portion of the crankshaft 1000 that interfaces with a main bearing.The first porous region 1040 and the second porous region 1044 thusdefine fluid delivery features that provide lubricant oil to wearsurfaces to portions of the rotating crankshaft 1000 during operation.The first bore 1010 and the second bore 1012 likewise provide oil andfluid communication through the interior regions of the crankshaft 1000along its length. Thus, oil may be transferred through the length of thecrankshaft from the terminal end 1004 to the crankpin 1002 at theopposite end, thus providing enhanced lubrication for the compressorduring operation. The fluid delivery features can thus be created (e.g.,via printing) to facilitate oil passage to surfaces that requireadditional lubrication. The lattice structure 1030 can likewise beformed via the additive manufacturing process.

Another variation of a high-strength light-weight crankshaft 1000Bhaving one or more fluid delivery features is shown in FIG. 13B. Thedesign and components in crankshaft 1000B are the same as those incrankshaft 1000 in FIG. 13A, except to the extent discussed herein. Thesolid surface 1032B in crankshaft 1000B is disposed over a latticestructure 1030B. The lattice structure 1030B is disposed within at leastone core or interior region 1022B within the body portion 1020B. Thelattice structure 1030B is formed via additive manufacturing, aspreviously described above.

However, one or more removal holes 1048 are formed in the solid surface1032B for removal of residual or loose powder remaining after theadditive manufacturing process. Thus, the lattice structure 1030B mayhave empty void regions. Notably, some loose particles may remain in thevoids after the removal process; however a majority of loose andresidual particles are removed. In certain aspects, the latticestructure 1030B design may provide adequate insulation to heat, sound orvibration where desired, so that leaving such particles or introducinganother material is not necessary. In other variations, the latticestructure 1030B may have empty void regions that are subsequently filledwith distinct materials (e.g., solids, gels, foams, liquids, or gases)or negative pressure/vacuum. After removal, the removal holes 1048 inthe solid surface 1032B may be subsequently sealed over with a materialvia a variety of known techniques to create such patches. The removalholes 1048 may be sealed when it is desirable to have a contained orsealed interior volume, for example, when the interior region 1022B isformed of or contains a material that is not compatible with refrigerantand oils in the compressor or a vacuum is present in the voids of thelattice structure 1030B. The holes 1048 may or may not need to be sealedin the final part, but if so, methods such as soldering, welding,adhesives, and the like may be used. As discussed above, in certainvariations, the residual powders, such as metal powders, may remaininside the lattice structure voids to provide additional properties. Itshould be noted that any of the embodiments discussed above that areshown to have excess unsintered powder disposed in voids of the latticestructure may be modified to instead have the excess or residual powderremoved from the voids in the lattice structure. Similarly, any of theembodiments shown above that have loose or excess powder removed mayinstead have the powder remaining in the voids of the lattice structure.

As discussed above, the various lattice structures discussed above maybe used in the body portions of a variety of distinct compressorcomponents. The embodiments discussed previously herein arerepresentative and such concepts may be applied to a variety of distinctcompressor components. Compressor components are contemplated that havea body portion with at least one interior region comprising a latticestructure formed via additive manufacturing and a surface disposed overthe lattice structure. Further, the fluid delivery features, whether asinternal channels or passages, fluid ports, or porous fluid deliveryfeatures can be created (e.g., via printing) within the body portion ofthe component to facilitate fluid flow through the compressor component.Such fluid delivery features can also be formed in the same additivemanufacturing process as the internal lattice structure. Each componentcan be optimized for weight, fluid delivery, strength, sound transfer,or heat transfer or any combination of these. Such components serve todesirably improve fluid flow within the compressor. The componentsprepared in accordance with certain aspects of the present teachingsthus provide light-weight components with strength and robustness towithstand various operating conditions in a compressor, such as a scrollcompressor.

In certain aspects, a compressor component may be an assembly formedfrom a first piece or part that is created via additive manufacturinghaving at least one interior region comprising a lattice structure andone or more fluid delivery features. The assembly may further compriseother pieces or parts that are created via conventional formationtechniques, for example, being wrought, cast, or sintered from apowdered metal in a conventional manner as recognized in the art.

Types of compressors that can incorporate components prepared inaccordance with certain aspects of the present disclosure includepositive displacement and dynamic compressors. Positive displacementcompressors increase refrigerant vapor pressure by reducing the volumeof the compression chamber through work applied to the compressor'smechanism. Positive displacement compressors include many styles ofcompressors currently in use, such as reciprocating, linear. rotary(rolling piston, rotary vane element, single screw, twin screw,centrifugal compressor component), and orbital (scroll or trochoidal).Dynamic compressors increase refrigerant vapor pressure by continuoustransfer of kinetic energy from the rotating member to the vapor,followed by conversion of this energy into a pressure rise. Centrifugalcompressors function based on these principles.

By way of non-limiting example, in certain variations, the light-weight,high-strength compressor component is optionally selected from the groupconsisting of: a bearing housing, a main bearing housing, a lowerbearing housing, an orbiting scroll component, a non-orbiting scrollcomponent, a housing or a shell, a cap, a cover, a separator plate, amuffler plate, an Oldham coupling, a scroll compressor valve, a drivebushing, an interface region between a shell and stator, a rollerelement, a rotary vane element, a roller element housing, a screwcomponent, a screw, a gate rotor, a bearing, a centrifugal compressorcomponent, a reciprocating component, a piston, a connecting rod, acrankshaft, a cylinder head, a compressor body, a discus valve, a discusvalve retainer, a valve plate, and combinations thereof. Such acomponent having an internal lattice structure when incorporated into acompressor serves to reduce weight, while improving fluid flow withinthe compressor. The fluids may include lubricant oil, refrigerants, orcombinations therefore. In certain aspects, such a component having oneor more fluid delivery features enhances lubrication of the componentwithin the compressor during operation. In other aspects, such acomponent may be incorporated into a compressor that has a higherefficiency or enhanced performance. Also local lattice densitymodifications could be made to increase or decrease the housingstiffness and improve thermal, sound and/or vibration characteristics.This could allow the component to be stiff in areas for welding andflexible in the bearing areas to improve alignment robustness andbearing performance.

In certain variations, the compressor may be a scroll compressor and thecompressor component may be a scroll compressor component. In certainembodiments, the light-weight, high-strength scroll compressor componentis optionally selected from the group consisting of: a bearing housing,a main bearing housing, a lower bearing housing, an orbiting scrollcomponent, a non-orbiting scroll component, a crankshaft, a housing or ashell, a cap, a cover, a separator plate, a muffler plate, an Oldhamcoupling ring, a scroll compressor valve, a drive bushing, an interfaceregion between a shell and stator, and combinations thereof.

The foregoing description of the embodiments has been provided forpurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the disclosure. Individual elements or featuresof a particular embodiment are generally not limited to that particularembodiment, but, where applicable, are interchangeable and can be usedin a selected embodiment, even if not specifically shown or described.The same may also be varied in many ways. Such variations are not to beregarded as a departure from the disclosure, and all such modificationsare intended to be included within the scope of the disclosure.

What is claimed is:
 1. A light-weight high-strength compressor componentfor a compressor having at least one fluid delivery feature comprising:a compressor component body portion having at least one sealed interiorregion that comprises a lattice structure comprising a plurality ofcells formed via additive manufacturing and a solid surface disposedover and enclosing the lattice structure, wherein the body portionfurther comprises at least one fluid delivery feature to facilitatefluid flow through the body portion of the light-weight, high-strengthcompressor component.
 2. The light-weight high-strength compressorcomponent of claim 1, wherein the at least one fluid delivery feature isan open channel formed within the compressor component body portion forfluid communication within the compressor component, wherein the openchannel is separated from the at least one sealed interior region thatcomprises the lattice structure by a solid internal wall.
 3. Thelight-weight high-strength compressor component of claim 2, wherein theopen channel permits flow of lubricant oil or refrigerant.
 4. Thelight-weight high-strength compressor component of claim 1, wherein thelattice structure comprises a metallic lattice structure and the solidsurface comprises a metallic surface.
 5. The light-weight high-strengthcompressor component of claim 1, wherein at least one fluid deliveryfeature comprises a fluid delivery port connected to at least onechannel that provides fluid communication within the compressorcomponent.
 6. The light-weight high-strength compressor component ofclaim 1, wherein at least one fluid delivery feature comprises acompressor component fluid delivery port selected from the groupconsisting of: bleed holes, vapor injection ports, liquid injectionports, valve placement ports, modulation ports, pressure feed ports,variable volume ratio ports, compressor component discharge ports,compressor component suction ports, and combinations thereof.
 7. Thelight-weight high-strength compressor component of claim 1, wherein atleast one region of the at least one fluid delivery feature comprises aporous material.
 8. The light-weight high-strength compressor componentof claim 7, wherein the porous material has a first region with a firstaverage pore size and a second region with a second average pore size,wherein the second average pore size is smaller than the first averagepore size.
 9. The light-weight high-strength compressor component ofclaim 1, wherein each cell of the plurality of cells of the latticestructure comprises a node having a shape selected from the groupconsisting of: a sphere, a modified sphere comprising one or more flatsurface regions, a sphere comprising posts, a cone, a double-cone, apyramid, a diamond, a star, a cube, a polyhedron, an irregularasymmetrical globular shape, and combinations thereof.
 10. Thelight-weight high-strength compressor component of claim 1, wherein eachcell of the plurality of cells of the lattice structure has a maximumaverage dimension of greater than or equal to about 0.1 mm to less thanor equal to about 10 mm.
 11. The light-weight high-strength compressorcomponent of claim 1, wherein the plurality of cells comprises a firstcell having a first maximum average dimension and a second cell having asecond maximum dimension, wherein the first maximum average dimensionand the second maximum average dimension are distinct from one anotherto provide a lattice structure having a varying cell density.
 12. Thelight-weight high-strength compressor component of claim 1, wherein eachcell of the plurality comprises a solid structure defining one or morevoid regions therebetween, wherein the one or more void regionscomprises loose residual metal particles or a material disposed therein.13. The light-weight high-strength compressor component of claim 1,wherein at least one surface region of the at least one fluid deliveryfeature comprises a coating.
 14. The light-weight high-strengthcompressor component of claim 13, wherein the coating is an omniphiliccoating or an omniphobic coating.
 15. The light-weight high-strengthcompressor component of claim 13, wherein the coating comprises anadditive to be transferred to the fluid as it passes through the atleast one fluid delivery feature.
 16. A light-weight, high-strengthscroll compressor component comprising: a body portion having at leastone sealed interior region that comprises a lattice structure comprisinga plurality of cells formed via additive manufacturing and a solidsurface disposed over and enclosing the lattice structure, wherein thebody portion further comprises at least one fluid delivery feature tofacilitate fluid flow through the body portion of the light-weight,high-strength compressor component, wherein the at least one fluiddelivery feature is configured to circulate a lubricant oil andoptionally a refrigerant.
 17. The light-weight high-strength compressorcomponent of claim 16, wherein the light-weight, high-strengthcompressor component is selected from the group consisting of: a bearinghousing, a main bearing housing, a lower bearing housing, an orbitingscroll component, a non-orbiting scroll component, a crankshaft, ahousing or a shell, a cap, a cover, a separator plate, a muffler plate,an Oldham coupling, a scroll compressor valve, a drive bushing, aninterface region between a shell and stator, a roller element, a rotaryvane element, a roller element housing, a screw component, a screw, agate rotor, a centrifugal compressor component, a bearing, areciprocating component, a piston, a connecting rod, a cylinder head, acompressor body, a discus valve, a discus valve retainer, a valve plate,and combinations thereof.
 18. The light-weight high-strength scrollcompressor component of claim 16, wherein the lattice structurecomprises a metallic lattice structure and the solid surface comprises ametallic surface.
 19. A light-weight high-strength compressor componentfor a compressor having at least one fluid delivery feature comprising:a body portion having at least one sealed interior region that comprisesa lattice structure comprising a plurality of cells formed via additivemanufacturing and a solid surface disposed over and enclosing thelattice structure, wherein the body portion further comprises at leastone fluid delivery feature to facilitate fluid flow through the bodyportion of the light-weight, high-strength compressor component, whereinat least one surface region of the at least one fluid delivery featurecomprises a coating that comprises an additive to be transferred to thefluid as it passes through the at least one fluid delivery feature,wherein the additive is either a wear-enhancing additive for thelubricant oil or a wear-reducing additive for the lubricant oil.
 20. Alight-weight high-strength compressor component for a compressor havingat least one fluid delivery feature comprising: a body portion having atleast one sealed interior region that comprises a lattice structurecomprising a plurality of cells formed via additive manufacturing and asolid surface disposed over and enclosing the lattice structure, whereinthe body portion further comprises at least one fluid delivery featureto facilitate fluid flow through the body portion of the light-weight,high-strength compressor component, wherein the at least one fluiddelivery feature is configured to retain a lubricant oil untilfrictional heat generated during operation of the compressor facilitatesflow and release of the retained lubricant oil from the at least onefluid delivery feature to a friction surface.